Style Is Secondary

Musical styles are mostly a matter of personal preference. Congregations that wish to appeal to a wider range of people will probably want to provide both contemporary and traditional music as part of their worship experience whether that is done in the same service or in separate services.

For Catholics, worship music is meant to support and encourage the liturgical prayer of the people. More important than the style is the appropriateness of the music in leading the congregation more deeply into the various moments of worship and types of prayer.

Some moments benefit most from quieter, meditative or reflective music. Other moments warrant more triumphant songs of praise. Still other moments can call for lamentation and sorrow. These types of prayer can be aided by either style of music so long as it matches the momentary theme. Without an appropriate match, music actually can distract from the worship experience.