A local, self-taught pianist is making her mark as a senior.

San Antonio native Anna Castillo is graduating on Friday from Texas Online Preparatory School and will be gathering with her online peers on the University of Dallas’s campus.

Not only will she be joining thousands of her classmates from the school, but she will also be playing piano at the Commencement Ceremony.

Castillo said she learned to play piano by ear in her bedroom. She was then asked to play for award ceremonies, concerts and even weddings.

“I’ve been playing for six years,” Castillo said. “And it’s been a long journey of practice, frustration, dedication and focus.”

Castillo decided to switch to homeschooling at the start of the sixth grade after an uncomfortable experience with public school.

“I didn’t feel comf

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