Texas Teen Turns Pandemic Hobby into a Global Music Career

For many students, the pandemic brought unexpected challenges and changes. For Haleigh O., a 14-year-old composer and pianist from Corpus Christi, Texas, it became the catalyst for an extraordinary musical journey. 

Haleigh began playing piano five years ago, teaching herself through YouTube tutorials during the pandemic. Her passion for piano grew rapidly, and within a year, she was studying Bach and capturing the attention of professional musicians worldwide. 

As Haleigh’s love for composition grew, balancing music and academics became increasingly challenging. Transitioning to Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville (TVAH) allowed her to prioritize her education while dedicating hours each day to composing, traveling, and performing. TVAH’s flexible schedule and personalized learning model made it possible for Haleigh to pursue her passion without sacrificing her academic goals. With the support of dedicated teachers who encouraged her creativity and understood her unique learning needs, Haleigh maintains straight A’s and has composed over 35 original works, including symphonies, piano concertos, and chamber music. 

At just 11 years old, Haleigh composed her first piano sonata at Texas A&M University Kingsville. Since then, she has composed for and performed with the Corpus Christi Chamber Orchestra and Texas A&M’s Symphonic Winds. Her talent has taken her to international stages, including an invitation to a chamber music festival in Germany, where her original piano quintet earned an encore performance. 

Currently, Haleigh studies piano under Dr. Joachim Reinhuber at Texas A&M Kingsville and composition with Dr. James Wilding of The University of Akron. She dreams of becoming a film composer one day. You can follow Haleigh’s journey on her website, www.haleighardenoneill.com. 

Haleigh’s story is one of passion, dedication, and the power of finding the right learning environment. She is proof that when students are given the support they need, they can flourish in remarkable ways. TVAH has been instrumental in helping Haleigh thrive, providing both the academic foundation and the flexibility required to nurture her talents.  

Is your child in need of a new, personalized learning environment? Enroll with TVAH today and become part of a tight-knit school community.