Some 50 musicians from throughout the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois gathered at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception for Diocesan Music Day.

Returning for the first time in several years, the event featured various workshops in church music.

"One of the primary realizations from the day was the need for music people to gather together and not only learn, but exchange ideas and varying opinions, united in faith and service to Christ and the church," said G. Fred Guzasky, director of music and liturgy at the Cathedral.

Deacon Larry Smith presented "Cantors at the Crossroads," which spoke of the importance of the ministry and this ministry's changing role. Richard Wappel, a composer from the St. Louis Cathedral, presented some of his own compositions and Guzasky spoke of the resurgence of Gregorian chant in our liturgical lives. Therese Allen, of Ss. James and Patrick Parish in Decatur, facilitated an open forum where ideas were exchanged and participants provided material for future workshops. Angela Manney, a cantor from the Cathedral Church, presented a session about Lectio Divina and the chant, meditating on the text of each phrase sung and a highlight of the day was a choral reading session provided by Keith Kalemba of World Library Publications, which gave attendees the opportunity to hear new music.

Guzasky said organizers are already looking forward to next year's Music Day and will base workshops on ideas that were presented in evaluations completed, such as music for children, contemporary music in the church and advice for using and implementing entrance and communion antiphons. Many, Guzasky said, requested a chant symposium which will begin in the fall.

Contributing was G. Fred Guzasky, director of music and liturgy, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and assistant director of music and liturgy for the diocese.