Stephen Costanza studied music theory and composition at Syracuse University before attending the Philadelphia College of Art to pursue a career in the visual arts. He has worked as both a graphic designer and illustrator for several years in a career that has encompassed silk screening, graphic design, and book illustration. He has always maintained a strong interest in music; from 1980 to 1992 he played the piano professionally in a ragtime/classical music ensemble, performing with his friend, a violinist.

His illustrations have appeared in magazines, newspapers, advertising and textbooks, from The American Prospect and Cricket to brochures for the Boston Ballet, Four Seasons Hotel, and Boston Lyric Opera.  Five of his paintings were exhibited at the 2000 Children’s Book Fair in Bologna, Italy.  He lives on the coast of Maine, where he enjoys walks along the water, hiking in the woods, and the occasional lobster roll.

Mozart Finds a Melody (Henry Holt & Co.)

Noodle Man (Orchard)