Drums and Electric Guitars in LDS Church Performances: Guidelines and Exceptions

A comprehensive understanding of the policies surrounding the use of drums and electric guitars in LDS church performances can provide clarity for members and visitors alike. Traditionally, music played in chapels has been acoustic, with occasional exceptions that enhance the worship service.

Instrument Use in Worshipping

Stephen, a long-standing member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and former bishop, shares his experience and insights on instrument use during worship services. For 30 years, he has not heard drums or electric guitars during his Sunday services, although such instruments may occasionally be used during special activities or events.

Worship and Reverence

The LDS Church places a high importance on maintaining a reverent and respectful environment during worship. Instruments like acoustic and classical guitars, and even woodwind and brass instruments, are often used when they can enhance the atmosphere and the worship service. However, loud or high-energy instruments, such as drums and electric guitars, which can detract from the reverent environment, are generally not used in chapels.

Occasional Exceptions

While drums and electric guitars are not commonly found in chapels, they may be used in other parts of the church building, especially during local leaders' occasional evening meetings such as 'fireside meetings'. During these events, the guidelines for worship services and funerals are relaxed, allowing for a wider range of musical expressions.

Music and Sunday Services

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints adhere to the commandments and keep the Sabbath Day holy. As a result, it is not appropriate to play high-decibel or 'rock concert'-style music in LDS church buildings on Sundays. Additionally, non-reverent music is never appropriate in the chapel sanctuary of an LDS Church building on any day of the week.

Permitted Performances

For performances and events held in the cultural hall, gym, or other rooms outside of the chapel, the use of louder and more energetic music is permitted, provided it is not on Sundays. Stephen notes that he has attended an LDS rock band concert in the cultural hall on a Saturday night, which included electric guitars. Dance events, which are commonly held in the cultural hall on Fridays and Saturdays, may also feature a live DJ or popular music played through recorded music.

Conclusion

Understanding the guidelines and exceptions regarding instrument use in LDS church performances can help create a respectful and reverent environment for all members. While certain instruments are not commonly found in chapels, creative and reverent music can still enhance local events and meetings outside of worship services.