About Marty

Marvin Northrup first started square dancing September 1975 in upstate New York, alongside his parents after years of Eastern style square dancing.  Only a boy when he first began to dance, Marv quickly became fluent in the workings of squares and learned the basic techniques of calling.  During the summer of 1976, he attended a 4-day crash course Caller's College at Madison College in Harrisonburg, VA.  Using his natural vocal talent (he was invited to all-district choir in elementary and middle school) he chose to pursue calling part time.

Marvin was soon the talk of the local clubs.  He was a sensation in his teenage years, and even started his own club in Arkville, NY in 1976 (with the help of his Dad, Neal and his Mother, Ina).  Into the 80s and 90s, Marvin was a dominant force in New York State square dance calling.  He was the club caller for multiple groups in the scope of his New York career.  In 1999, Marvin and his family relocated to Western North Carolina (it was at this point, he became known as "Marty").  Marty has been calling for clubs throughout North and South Carolina, Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas ever since.  Marty has a goal to call in all of the lower 48 states. 

Marty has many stories to tell.  Once upon a time he sent a post card to a family in New Kingston, NY to have them join his newly-formed square dance club.  Little did he know that this post card would not only convince two of his favorite dancers to join, but also would eventually develop these two dancers into in-laws.  Marty married the daughter of his favorite dancers, and Marty and Karen were happily together for 28 years until 2011, when Karen lost a battle with cancer.  Marty has four children: Megan, Ryan, Kevin, and Katelyn, and two grandchildren, Sarah and Ella.

Marty, when not busy doing other things, enjoys oil painting, woodworking, jewelry-making, sports, and he often boasts about his great pizza recipe.  Though much to his dismay, his oldest son (who also conveniently and graciously helps maintain his website) has been praised for a somewhat superior pizza! 

When will Marty call for your club?  Let us make that happen.  

My best to you always,

Marty