As a previous RCM-oriented student, initiating my musical path from an early age of 5 and finally concluding my memorable journey at an age of 14, it is with great sorrow to discover that Mrs. Sorden has passed away. 

Upon meeting Mr. Afrim, initially, I became aware of Mrs. Sorden. From a very young age, even with limited magnitudes of knowledge about theory and technicalities, Mrs. Sorden was always present, providing me the motivation to keep progressing past conflictive obstacles. Upon reminiscing, her cherished passion and sincerity towards the realm of music always served as a factor of aspiration for my goals to master the piano. Similar to myself, it is with a guarantee to illustrate that Mrs. Sorden played a pivotal and crucial role in the development of a numerous amount of musical talent. 

As a teacher, a supporter, and a musical inspiration, Mrs. Sorden was truly one exceptional individual that will be missed by many. On a personal account, when there were moments that enabled students, such as myself at the time, to practice either music theory or technicalities at Mrs. Sorden’s house, despite having to oversee a multitude of students, all at different musical levels, there was always a hint of excitement present as she showcased her love towards music and helping other people. Her ability to multitask was amazing! 

Generally, Mrs. Sorden, was not only someone that represented a teacher, but someone that one could rely on for support. The impact Mrs. Sorden has had on my very own piano development is indescribable, taking into account her dedication, overall, towards the improvement of numerous individuals’ musical abilities. 

To the family, the Ponna family gives you their deepest condolences and wishes during these hard times. To Mrs. Sorden, thank you. Thank you for being one of the most encouraging and passionate music teachers ever. Thank you for making such a positive impact on the lives of many! 

With our full support,

The Ponna Family

She’s wonderful person  though we spent little time with her, she has shown her kindness and experience while teaching Piano to my son. 
we all (Mr Afrim class students) will be missing her for sure. May her sole rest in peace.

We got introduced to Joy by Afrim Shabani as my daughters learnt piano at his music school. Joy taught my elder daughter for several years and has been teaching  my younger daughter for couple of years. We have interacted with Joy in person and over video and both my daughters were unanimous in expressing immediately after their respective first class that they learnt a lot from Joy and would want as many lessons from her as possible. Joy was indeed a joy to work with. She touched our family’s lives in ways we cannot describe in words. We interacted with her a few weeks back and were eagerly waiting for her lessons when we learnt of the sad news. However, we take solace in the fact that she is in a better place. May her soul rest in peace. Our condolences to Joy’s entire family.
Govind Krishnan and family, Bloomington

My family and I were fortunate to meet Joy 7 years ago when my children started piano lessons with Afrim Shabani. 

Since our first meeting, my children (then 5.5 and 7) were immediately drawn to her.  Over the years our lessons with Joy became the norm and my children flourished as piano players. Her kindness, her limitless patience and ability to draw performance from even the most reluctant child (my son!) is a testament to her spirit, her talent and her connections with all those who knew her. When the pandemic came and classes went online, there were many times where I would need to step in during a class to reprimand my son because he was taking advantage of Joy’s kindness and sulking and being petulant during his lesson. She never once lost her temper, and I know she should have! I would text her afterwards apologizing for my son and I would ask her to please let me know if the kids were ever badly behaved, because that was just unacceptable. Her response was always, no no they fine, they aren’t rude, they’re just tired and need a little push, we will get through it don’t worry, he’s a good boy, she’s a good girl. 

We will all miss her dearly, she certainly touched our lives, and even though I never had a lesson with Joy, it was my honor and pleasure to know her for as long as I did.  

Iman, Amaan & Ayesha Ahmad

OBITUARY

Joy Elene Sorden

March 17, 1948 – August 11, 2024

East Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

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