Introductory
remarks given prior to the concert by WISL Director Bassam Shakhashiri
Thank you for joining us at the inaugural “Concert at Chemistry.”
This concert was conceived and is sponsored by the Wisconsin
Initiative for Science Literacy. One of the goals of WISL’s
Science, the Arts and Humanities program is to showcase our
faculty and students at their best in the laboratory and in
the performing arts.
The program cover art (seen above) displays chemical symbolism
from a paper in the Journal of the American Chemical Society
and the musical notes from an original composition by Professor
John Berry, which will have its world premiere today. The display
itself is a piece of art created by WISL’s Rod Schreiner.
Creativity, passion and the urge for expression and for exploration
are essential human qualities that inspire science, the arts
and the humanities, and thus constitute a common bond among
them.
We are about to make history – a musical concert in the chemistry
building. Inside this building, we study and learn about breaking
bonds and making bonds. Music is one of the fundamental ways
through which humans bond with each other. Music tickles our
brains and it connects our hearts.
There is richness of scientific and artistic talent in our
midst. I am happy to announce that future concerts are planned
for science, math and engineering departments through the UW
campus.
I want to thank the seven scientists and artists who are featured
in today’s concert. The WISL is grateful for their contributions
and I know you will be too.
And now, ladies and gentlemen, I present to you my colleague,
Music Professor Christopher Taylor.
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