Conference IX was hosted by Haldan Tompkins of St. Peter in Chains Cathedral in Cincinnati, and Robert Schaffer of St. Mary’s Cathedral in Covington.
Agenda topics included: exploration of the Easter Vigil rites; perspective on the role of Sunday/Easter Vigil/Initiation Rites (by Reverend Giles Pater, noted teacher, musician, and pastor); reading session of in-house compositions focusing on Easter Vigil texts; seminary music curriculum (Anthony DiCello, St. Mary Seminary, Cincinnati); the "Dilemma of Excellence" (taped presentation by Erik Routley); spirituality, burnout, care and feeding of the church musician.
The Conference engaged in discussions regarding: ASCAP relations and the cathedral concert series; union musician contracts; incorporation of CRCCM; views for the future of CRCCM; and future conferences. Special recognition was given to Richard Proulx, on sabbatical leave from the Cathedral of Holy Name, Chicago.
The Conference heard presentations by the Choir of St. Joseph Cathedral (Columbus), directed by James Hecht; the Choir of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Chains, directed by Haldan Tompkins; the Choir of the Cathedral of St. Mary (Covington), directed by Robert Schaffer; and a lavish concert entitled "An Epiphany Epilogue."
The Most Reverend Daniel E. Pilarczyk, Archbishop of Cincinnati, presided at the opening Eucharist. The concluding banquet was held at the Hyde Park Community Center and featured entertainment by the R. J. Schaffer Dixie Land Band.