Born in Los Angeles, California, Stephen Alva’s musical journey began after discovering Elvis Presley at the early age of 6 years old. Shortly after, Stephen learned how to play guitar and started performing at local convalescent hospitals singing Elvis covers. He has since continued to develop an immense passion and skill for playing multiple instruments including guitar, bass, keys, saxophone, and vocals.

Stephen is a recent (2024) graduate of Huntington Beach High School as well as their Academy for the Performing Arts program. He trained all four years of high school under HB APA’s commercial music department: Music, Media, Entertainment, and Technology (MMET). Stephen was nominated Student Director on the student leadership board for MMET, in addition to being a Student Producer.

In 2023, Stephen was nominated for OC Artist of the Year (Read more here) by MMET's Vocal Director, Nicole Kubis, who stated, “Stephen may seem quiet, but he is a force to be reckoned with. ‘Ask Stephen’ has become a popular phrase throughout our department as Stephen is always ahead in learning his music. Not only does he learn his own music efficiently and perfectly, but he learns every part in the show so that he can be of assistance to other students who need it. He is kind, patient, humble and helpful.”​

After high school, Stephen began working as a full time musician and performing all over the OC/LA area with bands such as his own Stephen Alva Trio, Let It Be (Beatles cover band), and many others. He has been a frequent presence at popular outdoor venues such as Beach City Provisions, SeaLegs, and Cook’s Corner while also performing at intimate dinner lounges like Jojo’s Hideaway and Spaghettini.

In addition to performing, Stephen also has experience in the tech/live production aspect, doing freelance stagehand work and sound engineering. He joined the tech crew with the Pink Floyd cover band SHINE ON since early 2025.

He is also involved in music teaching/assisting at Valley Vista High School and HB APA. Stephen takes classes at OCC under professors such as Paul Navidad and Dave Murdy (Tijuana Dogs).