Marina began studying music at the age of 9. As a teenager, she played flute in the Bridgewater High School Band.  In 1980, she was awarded the Bach Trophy for her solo piano performance, and in 1981, Marina won the Star of the Festival Trophy for her solo flute performance. Following her high school graduation, Marina studied music education at Acadia University. As a piano major, Marina had the privilege to study with John Hansen, and as a voice minor, her teacher was Marie McCarthy.

In 1985, Marina graduated from Acadia University with a Bachelor of Music degree. She won the Bronze Medallion for scholastic achievement in music. Following graduation, Marina taught elementary music in Richmond County, NS. In 1988, Marina received a Master of Education (in teaching music) from Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC. She has taught private piano for 31 years. She has had successful piano studios in HRM, Scotland, and now, in Liverpool, NS. Marina has been a church musician for 40 years. Her students have praised her for her dedication to excellence and her patient and kind spirit. She also serves as an accompanist for the Liverpool Music Festival. Marina enjoys sharing her love for the piano and piano repertoire, and delights in helping her students to excel in piano technique, musicianship, and performance skills. She has also taught beginner voice, beginner flute, hymn playing, and music theory.