Ray Bowes's (1925 - 2010) reputation as a composer is worldwide with many of his compositions, published by the Salvation Army, being recorded. His skills as a composer were effectively used during his appointment as the head of the Salvation Army's music editorial department.
In 1998, (in retirement), he wrote "Fantasia", his second major work for Cornet and Band. The first major work, "Rhapsody for Cornet and Band" proved very popular with audiences and was recorded by the outstanding cornetist David Daws on "The Kings Crusader" CD. David Daws also recorded his "Fantasia" on the CD 'Hostile Skies' with Brass Band De Wâldsang. Its lyrical theme is based on Ray's own song setting "God is Love" written in 1980, the words by Charles Wesley.