For participants

Music file requirements

RallyHub checks every file the moment you choose it, before anything is uploaded. This page explains each rule and how to fix a file that does not pass.

At a glance

Rule	Requirement	If it fails
Format	MP3, M4A or WAV	You cannot submit the file
Playable	The file must contain readable audio	You cannot submit the file
Size	Up to 60 MB (the default limit)	You cannot submit the file
Duration	Within the program's expected duration ± tolerance	Warning — you can still submit

The empty upload area: “Drop your music here — MP3, M4A or WAV” with a Browse files button.

Accepted formats

RallyHub accepts the three formats every competition sound system can play:

MP3 (.mp3) — the most common choice. Use a bitrate of 192 kbps or more for good sound in an ice rink.
M4A (.m4a) — the AAC format used by Apple Music and iTunes.
WAV (.wav) — uncompressed, best quality, but large files.

Other formats — FLAC, OGG, WMA, AIFF, video files — are refused with This file type is not supported.

Error: This file type is not supported — anna_free_program.ogg is not an accepted format. Please upload an MP3, M4A or WAV file.

How to fix it: convert the file with your music software. In Apple Music or iTunes use File → Convert → Create MP3 Version; in Audacity use File → Export → Export as MP3.

The file must be playable

Files with the right extension can still be impossible to read — typically copy-protected purchases (old iTunes .m4p files), downloads that were interrupted, or a file that was renamed to .mp3 without being converted. RallyHub then shows This file could not be read.

Error: This file could not be read — the file does not appear to be a playable audio file.

How to fix it: play the file on your computer to check it works, then export it again from your music editing software as MP3, M4A or WAV. For copy-protected music, ask your choreographer or coach for an unprotected copy.

File size

Files up to 60 MB are accepted by default — enough for an uncompressed WAV of the longest free program. If your file is larger, RallyHub says The file is too large. Export it as MP3 instead: a 4-minute MP3 is about 5–10 MB.

Duration

Each program has an expected duration and a tolerance, shown as e.g. 03:30 ± 00:10. The music is within range when its length is between the two limits — here 3:20 and 3:40, both included.

If the music is shorter or longer, RallyHub shows the allowed range and asks you to verify your file.

Warning: Duration outside the allowed range. Allowed range 03:20–03:40. The submit button reads Submit anyway. — Out of range: 03:52.6 against an allowed 03:20–03:40.

Tips for a smooth submission

Name your files clearly, e.g. firstname_lastname_free_2026.mp3. The organizer sees the file name.
Trim silence at the start: the sound technician starts your music at the beginning of the file.
Submit early. You can replace the music until the deadline, so there is no advantage in waiting.