Q: I saw a comment on PBS Newshour this evening stating “in 1903 Pope Pius X banned the saxophone from sacred music, the ban has never been lifted”. What is considered sacred music and/or what would be the typical venue for sacred music?
A: Actually, I think it’s safe to say that the ban has been lifted. I admit I’m not a canonist, but here’s what GIRM 393 says, and this replaces previous legislation: “While the organ is to be accorded pride of place, other wind, stringed, or percussion instruments may be admitted into divine worship in the Dioceses of the United States of America, according to longstanding local usage, in so far as these are truly suitable for sacred use, or can be made suitable.”