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I happen to think that Ave Maria should be sung if there is a good soloist available. It wouldn't kill the rest of the choir or congregation to be silent for a few minutes. :-)

I'm not sure Pius X would agree with you.

I'm not sure Pius X would agree with you

About which opinion: That it should be sung, or that there's no harm in the choir/congregation remaining silent while the vocalist sang solo? Would he disagree with both opinions?

I never said it should be sung all the time, but for a Mass on a feast of Our Lady, for example, I happen to think it would be wholly appropriate. Is Ave Maria not conducive to prayer?

I'm not arguing here. I'm just trying to figure out why "Salve Regina", for instance, would be appropriate while Ave Maria wouldn't. And I'm wondering why hymns/songs must be able to be sung by the congregation if they are to be used. Again, strictly speaking for myself, I'm happy to join in on hymns and I benefit from it. Other times listening to a soloist or a choir inspires me by serving as a backdrop for my prayers and meditation.