MEET THE TEACHER
Mary Yorke
Mary started piano lessons at the age of five years old and studied under the tutelage of the distinguished Beverly Jensen Pond. She attended the University of Utah and has taught lessons since her college years.
Mary has also been involved in A cappella, Madrigals, and various religious choirs, both as singer, accompanist, and director, and has also had success in choir and hymn music arranging.
She has taught students from the ages of 3 to 60 and loves to see the “light bulb” of understanding and capability take place!
The Studio
Soft Pedal Piano Studio is a private home studio in Mansfield, Texas, located within walking distance of Annette Perry Elementary and near Remington Ranch and Cutting Horse Drive. Students enjoy one-on-one lessons in a space dedicated entirely to music.
The studio features both a grand piano and a digital piano, along with a variety of teaching materials, games, and resources that support students of all ages and experience levels.
Studio Offerings
Recitals
Studio recitals are held twice each year in May and November, giving students the opportunity to celebrate their progress and share their music with family and friends. School-aged students are encouraged to participate, with memorization welcomed but never required.
Holiday Music
While the studio does not hold a Christmas recital, students are encouraged to learn holiday music to share with their families, friends, and community. Students of all backgrounds and beliefs are always respected, and participation is never tied to a particular faith or tradition.
A Welcoming Studio
Soft Pedal Piano Studio welcomes students of all backgrounds, beliefs, and faiths. Every student is treated with kindness and respect, and there is no discrimination within the studio.
Studio Reviews
"I studied piano with Mary Yorke for three years, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. She is an incredibly patient, thoughtful, and encouraging instructor who truly cares about her students and their progress.
One of the things I appreciated most is that Mary encourages you to play the music you love. Whether you’re interested in gospel, contemporary worship, classical pieces, or modern pop music, she tailors lessons to your interests and goals, making learning both enjoyable and meaningful.
Mary also does a wonderful job of keeping lessons fresh and engaging. She creates fun challenges and creative activities that help students learn new skills, grow as musicians, and stay motivated. Her teaching style makes practice feel rewarding rather than overwhelming.
Beyond being an excellent piano teacher, Mary is a kind, gentle, and supportive person. She creates a comfortable learning environment where students feel encouraged to try new things and build confidence. She is equally gifted at teaching adults and children, adapting her approach to meet each student’s needs.
If you’re looking for a piano instructor who is knowledgeable, patient, encouraging, and genuinely invested in your success, Mary Yorke is outstanding. I am so grateful for the three years I spent learning from her!"
— Barbara Hughes, studio student
— studio student
"Mary Yorke is such a solid teacher!
I'm an older student in my 60s. I've always wanted to learn so I've been taking the last few years! Mary is so kind and patient to me. She is so knowledgeable with music and you can tell she loves it!
I'm so appreciative to her for all her work in my behalf. She truly is personable and cares about your progress!"
— studio parent
"My son has been playing piano with Mary for 8 years. She is the most patient and compassionate teacher I have ever met. My son absolutely loves her and loves the fact that he can choose music to learn that speaks to him.
His favorite song piece was Golden Hour, which he still plays regularly. He has learned classical, holiday, country, and an array of other music genres through the years.
I have recommended Mary to several friends through the years that have also loved her style of teaching and the relaxed environment she offers in her studio."