The Chilean foundation Canto Católico have released their version of the Salve Regina online. The hymn was sung by 450 choir members from 33 countries.
The idea of producing this melody was inspired by the pope's special Urbi et Orbi speech delivered on March 27.
FRANCISCO VAL JIMÉNEZ
Canto Católico
“We wanted to invite everyone who wished to unite their voices with Heaven and entrust themselves to the Blessed Virgin. So we chose this song.”
Salve Regina's lyrics have been attributed to Bernardo de Claraval, but the melody was composed in the 13th century.
Elena Marraccini was chosen to be the soloist for this version of the song. She explains while Salve Regina has a simple melody, it is technically difficult to execute it without breaks.
ELENA MARRACCINI
Singer
'It is easy, but when you want to maintain a consistent depth of tone, without breaking between consonants, vowels, syllables and making slight inflections, joining phrases that you did not want to cut, it becomes complicated.'
Canto Católico did not want to just make a beautiful video. They wanted to transmit a profound message in response to the current pain and fear of hundreds of thousands of people around the world.
FRANCISCO VAL JIMÉNEZ
Canto Católico
“We also wanted to share that feeling, that pain, that can only be understood from the cross. We, as Christians, give meaning to that pain. We are suffering and are having a hard time, but it is to be able to leave it in the hands of God. To look back to Him so that He may give us hope in this difficult moment.”
ELENA MARRACCINI
Singer
“It was impressive. I came thinking only of my own part. Then, when I watched the entire video, without knowing what happens next or the final result, it was like a shock: Wow, how impressive!”
In addition to songs like this, the Canto Católico foundation has materials on the role of music in the Church on its website and on its YouTube channel.
Their idea is to help people meet God through singing in church or on social media.
Javier Martínez-Brocal
Translation: KM
