Alpine has quietly harbored a master guitar builder since 1990, when Michael Stevens came to town. But this year Stevens took the spotlight, as Fender Musical Instruments Corporation kicked off celebrations for the 30-year anniversary of Fender Custom Shop, founded by Stevens in Corona, California, in 1987. Michael has built guitars for many musicians, including Eric Clapton. Two of those sold in Claptons Crossroads Guitars Charity auction….one for $231,500.00 and another for $45,000. He can be spotted at Cowboy Poetry Gatherings, and occasionally plays private parties. Otherwise, Stevens is probably fiddling around in his shop, or out most evenings, “trying to put some miles on my horse,” he said.
