Listen carefully at this year’s AQHA World Championship Show and you will hear the work of Marcela Riegel.
Marcela works for Stacey Raymond of Mobile Music Express of Denver, Colorado. Together, the two women have taken the World Show to a new level of entertainment with the addition of music.
“Music is exciting, and it always enhances the atmosphere of an event,” Marcela said.
Mobil Music Express has been traveling the nation with its musical talent exclusively for horse shows since 1999. From Arabians to draft breeds, Morgans and even mule shows, Stacey and Marcela take pride in their work.
Specifically requested by AQHA, Marcela has played famous rock songs from bands like AC/DC for speed events and “We Are The Champions” for final nights.
Marcela got her start 15 years ago by taking her DJ skills to weddings, company parties and other social events. Despite not having a horse background, Marcela said she has learned a lot about pairing music with show ring activities.
Marcela said she has gained an understanding of different gaits and riding styles. One of the duties she enjoys most is selecting songs for winners.
“Whenever there’s a winner and I can find a song matching the horse’s name, that’s always great,” Marcela said.
Since music is new to the World Show, Marcela said most feedback has been positive but she is aware of concerns.
“Some people are really nervous about having loud music around their horses. I think that’s something we’re going to have to work through,” she continued, “But you know, it will make better riders, right?” she said with a smile.
“It will give them one more challenge to try and be a champion,” she said.
Marcela uses a DJ program, PCDJ, to prepare her play lists. She said the program works well because she can listen to music before cueing it to play while the current event music is playing.
“Planning music for horse events starts well before the actual event takes place,” Marcela said.
“Stacey has dedicated years to perfecting play lists that work well for individual riding styles.
“In fact, right now I’m trying to put together some champion music for final rounds. You have to be a step ahead to avoid trouble,” Marcela said.
