Hymns and other appropriate music, whether played or sung, are important in Church meetings, in homes, and in personal lives. In a revelation to the Prophet Joseph Smith, the Lord said, “For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads” (D&C 25:12).

The First Presidency said: “Inspirational music is an essential part of our church meetings. The hymns invite the Spirit of the Lord, create a feeling of reverence, unify us as members, and provide a way for us to offer praises to the Lord.

“Some of the greatest sermons are preached by the singing of hymns. Hymns move us to repentance and good works, build testimony and faith, comfort the weary, console the mourning, and inspire us to endure to the end” (Hymns,page ix).

Elder Boyd K. Packer said: “Music can set an atmosphere of worship which invites [the] spirit of revelation, of testimony” (in Teaching, No Greater Call, p. 83). Music can be used in a variety of ways to enhance lessons and invite the Spirit. Following are a few examples: teaching or reviewing a gospel principle, providing insight into scripture, helping learners build and express their testimonies, concluding a lesson and encouraging learners to apply a gospel principle, and cultivating feelings of reverence. (See Teaching, No Greater Call, p. 172–173.)

The hymns of the Church are the basic music for opening exercises on Sundays and at Mutual. Hymns are also encouraged for prelude and postlude music, and special selections. If other musical selections are used, they should be in keeping with the spirit of the hymns of the Church. Texts should be doctrinally correct. (See “Hymns for Congregations,” Hymns, pages 380–81.)

Music in Church meetings should help members worship, feel the sacred spirit of the Sabbath, and feel the spirit of revelation. This music should not draw attention to itself or be for demonstration. Some religiously oriented music in a popular style is not appropriate for Sunday meetings.