The Recovering Choir Director

What norms should be followed regarding music during celebrations of the Eucharist? On March 5, 1967, the Sacred Congregation of Rites issued the instruction “Musicam Sacram” (AAS 59 [1967] 300-320) with the approval and confirmation of Paul VI, indicating its provisions should go into force on Pentecost Sunday, May 14, 1967. So far as I know, the document’s provisions never have been followed in the U.S. But also, so far as I know, the document’s provisions never have been replaced or abrogated.—G.G., Emmitsburg, Maryland

Professor of liturgy Father Edward McNamara provides his answer at Zenit. The provisions of Musicam Sacram may be studied online.