What kinds of music and musical instruments are appropriate for use in sacrament meeting?

Michael F. Moody, Chairman, General Music Committee of the Church. This question is frequently asked by those who would like to share their talent in church meetings.

The guideline for appropriate music is found in the Church Music Guide for Priesthood Leaders: “Those responsible for selecting music for Church meetings should make certain that music and text are sacred, of high quality, in harmony with the spirit of Latter-day Saint worship, and suitable to the occasion. The text should be doctrinally correct. Questions concerning musical propriety should be resolved by the local priesthood leader.” (1984 edition, stock no. PBCT1295.)

As to the use of instruments in sacrament meeting, the Guide indicates: “Organs and pianos are the standard instruments used in sacrament meetings. Other instruments such as orchestral strings may be used. Brass and percussion instruments are not appropriate.”

If you are asked to perform in sacrament meeting, you will probably be asked to do so within these guidelines. One of the main purposes for music in sacrament meeting is to enhance the spirit of the meeting. Some instruments and music—although appropriate on other occasions and in other settings—may not be in keeping with the reverence and spirituality of a worship service. Some presentations may tend to call attention to the performance, or may jolt and disturb members of the congregation, standing in the way of the Spirit rather than contributing to it.

In some instances the distinction between appropriate and inappropriate music may seem difficult to determine. For example, a text on a religious theme doesn’t necessarily guarantee that the musical setting—rhythm, style, and mood—is conducive to worship. A case in point is music found in such publications as A Song of the Heart, a Church-produced collection of “songs of faith and of joy, of service and love of the Lord” (available through Church distribution centers). The preface indicates that although these songs “may be used for many Church settings, family gatherings, and other special occasions, most of [them] would not be appropriate for sacrament meeting.” Similarly, other popular music, and even religious music performed in a popular style, while uplifting and motivating for many, may lack the dignity and propriety expected for worship services.

At the same time, music that might be effective in a concert setting may not be appropriate for sacrament meeting either. It is important that we choose music that will communicate a spirit of reverence and worship to the members of our congregations.

If you have been asked to share your talent in sacrament meeting, ask yourself if what you propose to do will enhance the spirit of the occasion or if it will detract from it. If you are uncertain, consult with your ward music chairman. You may conclude that although your instrument or musical selection may not be appropriate for a worship service, it would be fitting for a fireside, a ward or stake talent night, or a cultural arts program.

“Since there is so much worthy music, it is not necessary to select music of questionable propriety.” (Handbook for Church Music, 1975, p. 18.) I hope members of the Church will discover the new hymnbook as an excellent source of material for special musical numbers. Many hymns, both old and new, are effective as vocal solos or duets—hymns such as “The Lord Is My Shepherd,” “I Know That My Redeemer Lives,” “Our Savior’s Love,” and “When Faith Endures.” Instrumental arrangements of the hymns may also be appropriate.

Finally, perhaps we need to keep in mind a principle expressed in the Book of Mormon:

“And their meetings were conducted by the church after the manner of the workings of the Spirit, and by the power of the Holy Ghost; for as the power of the Holy Ghost led them whether to preach, or to exhort, or to pray, or to supplicate, or to sing, even so it was done.” (Moro. 6:9.)

It is difficult to have one single policy that applies to every situation, and this may become even more true as the Church grows and becomes more diverse culturally. For this reason, the General Music Committee does not provide lists of what music is and is not appropriate; they offer general guidelines instead. But if we as Church members understand correct principles and seek the Spirit as our guide, we will surely be blessed in making decisions that will abundantly bless the lives of others.