The Lubbock community is mourning the loss of a well-known and highly respected artist in the local music scene. Multi-award winning classical guitarist Susan Grisanti passed away in her central Lubbock home around 4:30 a.m. Monday.

For the past thirty years, Grisanti has performed throughout the U.S. and Europe and many recognize her as "the first lady of classical guitar in the Southwest." She has also taught more than 5000 students how to play many different styles of guitar.

Officials have not released the cause of death.

The funeral will be private and not open to the public.

A spokesman for the Grisanti family says, "The family wishes to express an endorsement of the Susan Grisanti Memorial Website at www.SusanGrisanti.com for all the friends, fans and students who Susan's life has touched. They have expressed that this is to be the sole memorial for her available to the public. Other memorials, or individuals, especially those seeking to raise money for a memorial service of any kind, are not endorsed by the Grisanti family."

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