Liturgical Composer’s Revived Copyright Claims Rejected by Jury

By Editorial Team

A liturgical-music composer, Vincent Ambrosetti, failed to persuade a jury that the Oregon Catholic Press infringed his copyright in a case that was revived by the Ninth Circuit.

Ambrosetti accused composer Bernadette Farrell of copying his 1980 song “Emanuel” to write her piece “Christ Be Our Light,” which was later utilized by Oregon Catholic Press. The dispute unfolded in the US District Court for the District of Oregon. However, the jury ultimately disagreed with Ambrosetti's claims, ruling that “Christ Be Our Light” did not infringe on his copyright in a verdict delivered on March 20 following a five-day trial.

In Ambrosetti’s 2020 lawsuit, he contended that “Emanuel” was featured in a liturgical music book, and he had recorded and performed it extensively. Despite his assertions, the jury found in favor of the defendants.

For more legal news and analysis, visit Bloomberg Law.