Steven G. Wiseman died February 5, 2021, at his home in Rio Rancho, NM. He was 73.
Steve was born June 7, 1948 in Quincy, IL, to Frank and Martha Wiseman. He attended the Quincy Public Schools, graduating from Quincy High School in 1966.
His musical abilities were recognized early on, and Steve began his piano studies at the Quincy Conservatory of Music while still in grade school. He studied with pianists Lavern Wagner and William Spencer Johnson, giving his first full-length piano recital at the age of twelve. He continued his music study with Emil Dannenberg at the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music, graduating with honors in 1971.
Following his graduation, he formed The New Quincy Trio, and concertized throughout the midwest, giving over 110 concerts in one season. He joined the faculty of the University of Wyoming in 1972 as a Teaching Assistant and Adjunct Professor of Music. He also taught at Truman State University and the University of Kansas, where he earned his Master's Degree in Music. He later returned to his hometown where he served as board member and President of the Quincy Conservatory of Music.
His love for the Great Plains took him to Colorado, where he performed with the Colorado Arts Trio; and to Arizona where he often performed as guest pianist for the Steinway Society Concert Series. His greatest affection, though, was for New Mexico, its landscape, history, and culture. He joined the faculty of The New Mexico School of Music, where he celebrated his love for the piano by teaching and performing in his new musical home. He particularly enjoyed any opportunities to perform with their talented faculty. He also shared his love of Music within the community, and in particular, at the Paradise Hills United Methodist Church. He valued, and took comfort in that special fellowship.
Steve is survived by many friends, colleagues and students who shared his love of music. He was preceded in death by his parents. Cremation has taken place. A private celebration of life will be held at a later time.
The song may have ended, Steve, but the melody lingers on.
