[1] Lisus was raised in a South African suburb of Cape Town in a musical family.
His godfather was a cellist and Lisus grew up listening to the music of family and of visiting musicians.
He makes his own varnish from walnut oil, Strasbourg turpentine mixed with plant resins such as mastic, and sandarac.
The instruments have been played at charity events that support music education for children in South Africa.
[2][3][4] He named the two violins, viola, and cello Freedom, Peace, Reconciliation and Hope.