by Patrick J. Burns (Grade 4, 5:35)

Fantasy on Salve Regina was written for the Ohio Northern University Wind Orchestra, directed by Dr. Thomas Hunt, and is based on the chant, Salve Regina. The melody dates back to around the 11th century and has been a part of the Catholic liturgy since the 12th century. I have had great interest in the Salve Regina for some time, since my college days, in fact. It is at once severe yet gentle; expressive yet meditative; vast in character, yet personal and intimate. This setting attempts to relate to the listener all of these varied elements which are germane to the original work.
 
Patrick J. Burns