Welcome to my piano studio in Dover, New Hampshire.

I teach children, teens, and adults in my calm, sunlit home studio. Most students come in person, with hybrid or online lessons available when needed. Whether you’re brand new, returning after time away, or hoping to grow your skills, you are welcome here. I offer a free introductory lesson so we can meet and talk about your goals.

 

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Here’s What Lessons Are Like

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How I Teach

My teaching is rooted in classical piano training, but I use a variety of instructional materials that introduce different musical styles. This keeps lessons interesting and helps students develop a well-rounded understanding of music. We choose pieces together—some that build technique, some that support musical foundations, and some that simply spark joy or curiosity.

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Inside a Lesson

Lessons include a blend of repertoire, technique, theory, ear training, and musicianship. I want each student to leave feeling successful, supported, and excited about what they’ll explore during the week.

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Practice & Motivation

Progress comes from steady, thoughtful work. I offer gentle encouragement and weekly focus points, and I ask students (and parents, when needed) to commit to consistent practice. Self-discipline grows naturally when students feel connected to their music.

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Lesson Format Options

Most students take lessons in person at my Dover home studio. If a student is ill, traveling, or needs flexibility, hybrid Zoom lessons are always available. I also teach a small number of fully online students who live outside the area, and these lessons follow the same structure as in-studio learning.

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A Time of Sharing

Each spring, students are invited to participate in a relaxed recital we call A Time of Sharing. It’s a low-pressure musical gathering where students can share what they’ve been working on. Participation is always optional—many students prefer private study—and the event is warm, encouraging, and enjoyable for everyone involved.

 

Meet Mary

I am a classically trained pianist and lifelong music educator with more than thirty-five years of teaching experience. I studied at the University of Southern Maine and have taught students of all ages—from young beginners to adults rediscovering their love of music.

I currently serve as the Music Director at RiverWoods Durham, a continuing care retirement community where music is woven into every part of life. I create and lead concerts for a vibrant 30-voice chorus, offer musical programs across the campus, and work closely with residents in Assisted Living and Memory Support through sing-alongs and special services. This work has deepened my understanding of music as story and connection, and it influences the way I teach—helping students of all ages discover meaning, expression, and confidence at the piano.

In addition to teaching, I am an active pianist continually working on new repertoire and long-term creative projects. My most recent endeavor is a multimedia program exploring the music of Alexander Scriabin. Continuing to study, perform, and collaborate keeps my musicianship vibrant, and the insights I gain as a student myself often become tools I can share with my own students.

My students describe me as patient, approachable, energetic, and kind. I strive to make lessons clear, encouraging, and enjoyable—a place where students feel supported and excited about their progress each week.

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5.0
Based on 11 reviews
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Kathe K. Barlow profile picture
Kathe K. Barlow
18:02 20 Jul 21
We have only wonderful things to say about Mary Doane! She's lovely, encouraging, connects so well with our son, and has made learning the piano over Zoom the most delightful experience. She's creative with her lessons, inspiring, and passionate about bringing music into the lives of her students. We are so grateful to have found her & highly recommend her and her work!!
Meaghan Roache profile picture
Meaghan Roache
11:38 17 Aug 20
Mary started giving piano lessons to two of my children (via Zoom) during the pandemic and she's been wonderful, especially given the challenging format. She relates to both my younger daughter and my near-teen. Because we hadn't been able to meet her in person, she even drove by our house and (socially distantly) delivered some surprises to the kids. I'd recommend her for any age piano student - she's so kind, caring, and good at what she does!
jan kirk profile picture
jan kirk
19:14 11 Jul 20
I found Mary on a Dover website soon after we all started our quarantine. My granddaughter loves piano and I had been looking around for a teacher for her. Mary answered my queries right away. I talked to my then 12 year old granddaughter and she was so excited. We have all enjoyed listening to what she has been learning from Mary. We even attended a Zoom recital!!
We highly recommended Mary as a music teacher🎼🎶🎵🎶🎹
Melanie Shields profile picture
Melanie Shields
18:48 11 Jul 20
Some people have two left feet- well I have two left hands! And yet, Mary is teaching me to play piano. I have known Mary for twenty years as my Minister of Music and choir director. Now she is teaching this old dog some new tricks. She is patient, joyful and a delight to work with each week. I can strongly recommend Mary for piano students of all ages!
Daniel Bromberg profile picture
Daniel Bromberg
09:36 08 Jun 20
Mary has been giving piano lessons to our daughter for the last two years. She has thoughtful approach that meets students where they are and works with them to move at their own speed. She is caring and compassionate and makes learning piano an enjoyable experience for our 8 year old.
Karen Merriam profile picture
Karen Merriam
20:34 04 Jun 20
Mary is a gifted, soulful, and nurturing teacher who is able to meet her students wherever they are and guide their musical growth in a supportive manner. She is fun, engaging, adaptable, and has a wide knowledge of music.
Emily Samuel profile picture
Emily Samuel
10:35 04 Jun 20
Mary started teaching my daughter piano when she was four years old, and we absolutely love her! She is patient and kind and provides the perfect balance between letting wiggly kids be themselves and focusing on the task at hand. Her teaching methods work - we took a break from lessons when my daughter started Kindergarten, but she still sometimes sits down at the keyboard and I hear her repeating the things Mary taught her almost a year ago! We are so excited to be returning to Mary for online lessons!
Bradley Solomon profile picture
Bradley Solomon
16:24 31 May 20
Does a wonderful job teaching my daughter how to play piano. Absolutely love Mary’s teaching methods, and my daughter really loves her lessons.
More reviews
Miss Mary has been such a wonderful teacher. I took lessons with her when I was a child, and now both of my daughters are taking them as well!

– Jim –

Ready to get started?

Please use the contact form below to get in touch. I look forward to meeting you and learning more about your goals.