Marcus was born and raised in the South of England, grew up in the West Country, and generally got older in other parts of Britain. Marcus studied physics at Leicester University before entering the I.T. industry. Some ten years later he moved North to the lands beyond Fife, and after taking some instrument making courses at Edinburgh he returned to England to study an instrument making course at the Newark School. Marcus is an I.T. company director and maintains a close working relationship with John Gosling at Chapel Violins. The first collaborative book The Violin Manual was brought into existence through his joint efforts with John. He takes an avid interest in the manufacture and use of all things musical and has built violins, viola d'amore, drums, and guitars.