Written by Ambre Montespan - Updated on Sep 13, 2026
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You probably won’t see horses putting on headphones and strolling around while listening to music, but that doesn’t mean they don’t like it. In fact, when the notes of a symphony or the rhythm of a guitar echo through a stable, these animals’ ears turn and point towards the source of the sound. That simply means they are paying attention. Far from being completely indifferent, they can react in measurable ways to the sounds in their daily lives. But what do they actually feel? Discover all the details in this article.
Equine Hearing Built for Vigilance
A horse’s ears have highly developed abilities, directly tied to its status as prey in the wild. Horses perceive frequencies ranging from 14 Hz to 25,000 Hz, including certain high-pitched sounds humans cannot hear. Thanks to 16 dedicated muscles, each of a horse’s ears can rotate independently by 180° to pinpoint the exact origin of a sound. Under these conditions, a sound level that humans perceive as pleasant can quickly become harsh for the animal. A horse’s hearing and behaviour are among the many topics that a specialised equestrian publication can explore in greater depth.
The Impact of Music Genres on Horse Behaviour
Studies in equine ethology have analysed horse behaviour across different music genres. These studies focus in particular on heart rate, ear position, and body posture. Classical and country music appear to have a calming effect on horses. These styles can contribute to a lower heart rate and promote relaxation.
Although different horse breeds may have certain specific traits, several signs are generally associated with a relaxed state:
- Relaxed ears;
- A lowered head;
- Chewing movements.
Jazz and moderate pop music do not have any particular effect on horses. They cause very few behavioural changes. Even when listening to these music genres, the animals generally keep their usual demeanour without any particular signs of stress. By contrast, hard rock and heavy metal are more likely to cause stress in horses. Distorted sounds and abrupt changes can trigger a state of alert marked by unusual behaviours. These include pricked ears, restlessness, and an increased heart rate.
The Influence of Rhythm on Horses’ Heart Rates
Music style is not the only factor that can influence a horse’s physiological state. The regularity and speed of the rhythm can also play a role. When the tempo is slow, it can promote a sense of safety and relaxation. By contrast, when it is fast, it can stimulate the nervous system and increase the heart rate. A more sustained rhythm can therefore prepare the animal’s body for exertion or flight.
What Are the Benefits of Music in the Stable?
Incorporating music into the stable can make certain aspects of daily horse care easier. It offers several notable benefits. First, it helps mask anxiety-inducing noises. Playing background music in the stable or during transport can soften certain sudden sounds that trigger startle reactions in animals. This includes thunderstorms, engine noise, or the sound of sheet metal, among others.
Music also promotes harmony during training. In liberty dressage or dressage to music (RLM), choosing a piece suited to the natural cadence of the gaits improves the horse’s regularity. Finally, soft music during grooming or care helps create a peaceful atmosphere between rider and horse. However, it should be noted that every horse has its own sensitivity. Individual observation remains essential.
