Prior to his fall, was Satan in charge of music in heaven?

TL;DR:

Satan was in charge of something in heaven, but his specific role prior to his fall is unclear. Music today can either be beneficial or harmful, and believers are called to have discernment regarding what music they listen to.

what does the bible say?

The King James Version of Ezekiel 28:13 states, "The workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created." Based on this verse, some believe Satan was a music leader or was in charge of music in heaven. Satan was clearly a leading, or the leading, angel in heaven, but it is unclear whether he served as leader of the music. This detail is not directly answered in Scripture. He would have worshiped God as other angels did, likely including worship through song or possibly an instrument. Yet his fall led to his rejection from his position and a future eternal torment (Revelation 20:10). Satan now serves his own agenda, living as a liar and father of lies, seeking those he can devour (John 8:44; 1 Peter 5:8). We are called to praise God, and one way we can do so is by making music, a joyful noise, to Him.

from the old testament

Ezekiel 28 and Isaiah 14 speak about Satan's role before his fall.
The Hebrew text of Ezekiel 28:13 has been difficult to interpret. Modern translations offer a slightly different rendering than does the KJV, quoted above. The ESV renders the last half of the verse as, "and crafted in gold were your settings and your engravings. On the day that you were created they were prepared." The first half of the verse includes a listing of stones, so, though uncertain, the focus appears to be on the various stones that represent beauty rather than on music.
Though it is not clear if Satan led music, he was called "an anointed guardian cherub" (Ezekiel 28:14).
Despite Satan's high rank in God's presence, at some point he turned against the Lord in pride: "You said in your heart, 'I will ascend to heaven; above the stars of God I will set my throne on high; I will sit on the mount of assembly in the far reaches of the north; I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High'" (Isaiah 14:13–14).

from the new testament

Music is a part of what takes place around the throne of God in heaven. For example, Revelation 5:8 and 15:2 mention harps used in the worship of God. Worship of God in heaven will certainly include singing as well. Before the fall of Satan, he served as an angel before the Lord, likely involved in praising God.
Satan now serves his own agenda, living as a liar and father of lies, seeking those he can devour (John 8:44; 1 Peter 5:8), not praising God.

implications for today

The idea that Satan once used or led music in heaven has led some to express concerns about the influence of music on earth, particularly regarding how it may be used by Satan to promote harmful or sinful behaviors. This perspective highlights a deeper awareness of the spiritual significance and potential impact of music, which is recognized as a powerful and influential art form. However, not all music is bad or sinful. Music, created by God, was intended to glorify Him and serve as a means of expressing worship, joy, and community among His people.

Believers are called to be discerning in their engagement with music, ensuring that their choices align with honoring God and reflecting His values. The use of music should elevate and glorify God rather than serve personal interests or propagate sinful messages. We are to evaluate the lyrics of songs and the effect that songs have on us. In a world where music can be used to both uplift and lead astray, it is crucial for Christians to critically evaluate the content and message of the music they consume and create. By doing so, we can ensure that our musical choices contribute positively to our spiritual growth and communities, rather than inadvertently supporting the work of the evil one.

understand

Ezekiel 28:13's reference to "tabrets" and "pipes" in the KJV does not definitively prove Satan was in charge of music in heaven.
Satan, once a high-ranking angel, is now a deceiver and no longer participates in divine worship.
Music was created to glorify God; believers should choose music that honors Him and avoids promoting sinful behaviors.

reflect

What influence does music have in your life? How does knowing that music can either be positive or negative and that we must be discerning about it challenge you?
How can you ensure that your choice of music reflects your commitment to honoring God and avoiding any influence from sinful behaviors?
How do you discern whether a particular piece of music contributes positively to your spiritual life and aligns with your faith?

engage

How does the idea of music being created to glorify God challenge or affirm your approach to the music you listen to or create?
How does recognizing that music can be used for evil purposes impact your approach to music?
Considering that Satan is now described as a deceiver, how should believers evaluate the messages in music to ensure they are not inadvertently supporting harmful influences?