Jenifer and Carla
The two oldest sisters of 5 kids, Jenifer and Carla began Anthropos in 7th grade at Webb Middle School. Both very quiet, shy students at first, Jenifer and Carla evolved to become fantastic musicians and leaders in their schools.
Jenifer became our go-to flautist, with a true gift for creative and soulful solos. Carla switched to Baritone Sax in her freshman year (under the tutelage of Austin legend, Brad Houser), and became the stalwart low-end of our reeds in countless ensembles. She brought incredible tone and depth to our sound. Both have been an inspiration to younger students, and were practically assistant teachers by their senior year.
Performing with Anthropos at ACL Fest multiple times (including with Grammy-winner Elizabeth McQueen), annually at SXSW and Stubb’s Amphitheater, ACL Live Moody Theater, Austin Music Hall, Emos, The ABGB, plus Shady Grove Unplugged and Blues On the Green with Shinyribs (for 20,000 fans!), both girls became section leaders in the Lanier HS Band, and Carla was eventually Drum Major!
Growing up about 100 yards from the highest crime corner in all of Austin, I have always had tremendous respect for these two first-generation students. They have remained focused and driven, and were very receptive to advice and guidance from our team. They avoided the pitfalls and temptations around them to the end – both graduated with the class of 2015, earning college acceptance and scholarship opportunities. Carla has already begun her coursework to become an EMT, and Jenifer enlisted in the military to take advantage of the GI Bill and attend college later.
IN THEIR WORDS :
“I started off a shy, timid young girl. My self- esteem was dramatically low. I did ok in school, but I didn’t interact much with my classmates. After doing Anthropos, I felt less afraid about speaking my mind and participated more in school. I met new and exciting people, and felt like doors were opening for me…. Anthropos taught me to get over my fears, about being on time, communication, and that with practice and dedication, anything is possible.” — Carla
“With Anthropos, I got to have more experiences that I could not get in a typical classroom. It showed me discipline, dedication, listening to others, and overall to value what I have and if there is something more I want, I will have to work hard for it. Not many people know the value that [Anthropos] has for students. Yes, it is playing/learning music, but to us, music is a way for us to cope with reality. To find an escape, or a solution to a problem. Everybody has an appreciation for music. You might not play an instrument, but there will always be that one song that speaks to you. For me, being able to have this experience is a blessing, and I hope other students will have the chance to have that feeling as well.” — Jenifer
