Stephen Debattista commenced his violin studies at an early age with Mro Callus. He then furthered his studies with Mro Mario Bisazza, under whose tuition he completed his exams in music theory and violin performance. There he obtained vast experience in performing chamber and orchestral works.

His idol is the contemporary world-renowned violinist Mro Carmine Lauri, with whom he took masterclasses in Malta. Stephen has had several occasions to perform with various musical directors, his favourite being with Mro Wayne Marshall.

Stephen joined the orchestra in 1990, then under the direction of Mro Joseph Sammut followed by Mro Michael Laus.