Cantor Robbi Sherwin, who was raised in small towns as an Air Force “brat,” is B’nai Butte’s Spiritual Leader. Although not a native Coloradan, she got here as fast as she could, and she commutes to us monthly from Austin, Texas. Robbi credits her years at Jewish summer camp for her love of Jewish music, ritual and holidays, her deep connection to Israel and the amazing sense of belonging that her mother, Felice, instilled in her: “It isn’t WHERE you are Jewishly, its WHO you are Jewishly." Robbi believes in bringing Judaism down from the bima, and that sacred community can be built no matter where you are.
Certified as a cantor in 2003, Robbi has spent decades singing and teaching. She takes a holistic view in her spirituality – and encourages others to create community through art & music, film and painting, photography, and, of course, food! She believes that everyone has something to contribute, no matter what their background.
In her other life, "Rockin" Robbi Sherwin has established herself as one of the most energetic touring artists today and her "spirited Jewish songcrafting" has found its way into synagogue worship, concert halls and summer camps from Tulsa to Tel Aviv. Her folk, rock, pop, and "Jewgrass" stylings are evident on her first two solo CDs, Todah LaChem (Thanks, Y'all) and Aish HaKodesh (The Holy Fire.) She is 1/3 of the critically acclaimed band, Sababa! (“cool”) with partners Steve Brodsky (Denver) and Scott Leader (Phoenix), who are being touted as a Jewish “supergroup” and the “Crosby, Stills & Nash” of Jewish music. Their first CD, Pray for the Peace has won accolades around the world, and its opening cut, "Love Adonai" recently took top honors in the international Shalshelet New Liturgical music competition. (www.SababaMusic.com)
A reviewer at Hadassah Magazine named her CD, Aish HaKodesh (The Holy Fire) "one of the Top 10 of 2005." The Jerusalem Post recently said: "Aish HaKodesh is mid-tempo feel-good adult rock.... exploring traditional Jewish texts with a generous dose of American spiritual awakening." One hundred percent of the proceeds of Robbi's music go to tzedakah (charitable organizations).
Robbi is married to Mark Jordan, a water law specialist and they have 3 kids: Jessica, Katy,and Sam. Cantor Robbi is thrilled to be the spiritual leader of B’nai Butte, and invites all to check out the “Rocky Mountain chai” of this very special community. She can be reached at robbisherwin@me.com.
Katy Jordan, Sam Jordan & Jessica Jordan Barenberg