After 43 years of leading Colorado Academy choirs, Cindy Jordan’s final concert at CA revisited many favorite traditions: red and white roses to say farewell to Seniors, a picnic on Stamper Commons, performances on the steps of Schotters Music Center, a group performance of “Rhythm of Life” with CA alumni seamlessly joining the choir on stage, and Jordan’s traditional final words to graduating seniors—“I hope you all keep singing and never lose your love for music.”
But it was Senior Ella Bittman, a veteran of 11 trimesters of choir, who had the final word. Speaking on behalf of the many groups Jordan had led that evening—and through all the decades—Bittman eloquently paid tribute to a beloved teacher, conductor, mentor, and role model.
“If you ask anyone in the community, they will speak with the utmost respect for Mrs. Jordan, for she has created an environment for us to grow and strive for our highest potential. It may sound like a cliché, but we are truly a choir family. And as we’ve followed Mrs. Jordan’s lead, we’ve learned to support each other, to laugh together, to cry together, and truly love one another.
“Mrs. Jordan, you’ve made this program what it is. You’ve built something that will stand the test of time for years and years to come, as 43 years of people owe their joy and passion for music to you. Although your job has been to direct choirs, you’ve done far more. You’ve taught us how to be kind, compassionate, loving, selfless people. That’s not something that can be taught easily, but hundreds and hundreds of people learned because you led by remarkable example.
“We are filled with eternal love and gratitude for this program and for you, and we’re even luckier to know that with you, this isn’t goodbye. The mark you’ve left on our lives is one that won’t fade, and we can be assured that our lives will forever be touched by you. Being in your presence has truly been one of the greatest gifts of our lives, and we’re so lucky to have been a part of your legacy. We love you.”
