Special Announcement: Remembering Bettye F. Forbes
Bettye Franks Forbes was an exceptional leader. She was visionary in her commitment to lift up the power of the African-American religious music of gospel, spirituals, and anthems.
Soft-spoken with a graceful countenance, Mrs. Forbes held a high bar for her vocalists and musicians, requiring a disciplined dedication to the music and the performance experience. She was a consummate director who had exacting standards that conveyed the beauty and the message of the music to those in the audience. I was privileged to join her choir and perform under her musical directorship for more than a decade.
Mrs. Forbes founded The Ebony Ecumenical Ensemble in 1979 for participation in the re-opening celebration of the renovated James Memorial Chapel at Union Theological Seminary of New York City. For 47 years, the group has captivated audiences across the country and abroad.
Over the years, Ebony performed with noted musicians from Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville to world-renowned opera star Kathleen Battle to jazz luminaries like Jay Hoggard, Wycliffe Gordon, and Cyrus Chestnut. The ensemble performed for heads of states, including President Bill Clinton, South African President Nelson Mandela, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Ebony earned international acclaim during a 2000 tour in South Korea for the Christian Broadcasting System, and in Brazil in 1986 and 1988.
We invite you to join us for a memorial service celebrating her life and spirit.
Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 7:00 PM
The Riverside Church of New York
490 Riverside Drive (120th St.)
New York, NY 10027
This special gathering will not only commemorate Mrs. Forbes’ remarkable contributions, but also celebrate her birthday in a spirit of reflection, gratitude, and unity. The Reverend Dr. James A. Forbes, Jr., Senior Minister Emeritus of The Riverside Church of New York will be joined by the Ebony Ecumenical Ensemble, Broadway conductor and arranger Joseph Joubert, and jazz pianist and composer Cyrus Chestnut.
Bettye Frank Forbes leaves behind a powerful legacy of faith, music, culture, and community that has touched countless lives. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
