The United States Equestrian Federation, Inc. (the USEF) is dedicated to promoting excellence in equestrian sport. For some disciplines—like dressage and para dressage freestyles and vaulting—music plays an important role. In the U.S. and worldwide, music is protected by copyright laws that dictate whether, when, and how music can be incorporated and utilized in choreography, practice, and competition.

As you may be aware, increased visibility of amateur artistic sports has led to legal challenges around music use in a range of sports, including ice skating, gymnastics, and synchronized swimming. The issue of music licensing is an area of the law that’s much bigger than equestrian sport and is constantly evolving. When using music for a performance or event, it is important to confirm that the appropriate rights and licenses are in place. Copyright regulations and music licensing requirements are strictly enforced, and failure to comply may expose athletes, organizers, and the USEF to civil penalties and damages.

On behalf of its members, US Equestrian provides:

• Blanket licenses with the two biggest music rights organizations, American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) and Broadcast Music, Inc.
• Access to Click n Clear portal through which athletes can request, and pay for, derivative rights to a particular song or songs.
• A Q&A video (below) with common questions on this issue.
• Resource pages for athletes and competition managers.