BELFAST — Mary Anne Driscoll, an improvisational pianist and vocalist known for her work in New York’s avant-garde jazz scene and later in Maine’s Midcoast community, died at 74.

Driscoll learned to play by ear and later studied formally at the College of San Mateo and San Francisco State University. In 1977, she moved to New York City to study with Cecil Taylor and went on to compose, arrange, and produce projects at CBS and RCA, collaborating with Jimmy Lyons, Dewey Johnson, Karen Borca, and Paul Murphy.

In the 1990s, Driscoll relocated to Maine, where she initially worked in early online media before returning to music full-time. In 1992, she led a trio session at Mapleshade Studios, featuring William Parker and Paul Murphy, which was dedicated to Jimmy Lyons. In 1997, she formed the Mary Anne Driscoll Quintet, alongside Jeff Densmore, Michael Whitehead, Jimmy Lyden, and Bruce Boege. Throughout her career, she spent over 30 years teaching voice, piano, and music theory, forming deep connections with her community and students. She continued to compose and perform both locally and internationally.

Renowned for her exceptional improvisational skill, Driscoll possessed a remarkable ability to identify and nurture the unique creative voices of those around her. As a mentor to countless musicians and students, she inspired many with her unwavering joie de vivre, boundless generosity, and encouraging spirit. Her impact on others was profound.

Driscoll is survived by her “greatest gifts,” her children and grandchildren, as well as all who were touched by her eternal spirit of love, peace, joy, community, friendship, gratitude, and encouragement. She was loved dearly and is missed daily.

"Music is language born of the soul, transmitted through the heart, interpreted in sound." -Mary Anne Driscoll

A celebration of her life and music will be held in Belfast on July 11, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Location details will be announced closer to the date.