Melodies of science & art

NY ensemble performance inspired by Galileo; March 7 at Hatcher Library

February, 2012

By Mary Morris

Music, narration, and a stunning video create an entertaining window into one of the most exciting periods in the history of western civilization. Galileo’s Daughters, an ensemble based in New York City, is inspired by the lives and works of Galileo Galilei, his daughter, Maria Celeste, and the musicians and scientists of their time.

Their story is told in a multimedia program, with four performers combining storytelling, songs, instruments, and striking visual images. The program, “Perpetual Motion: Revolutions in 17th-Century Science & Music,” is narrated by Dava Sobel, author of the book Galileo’s Daughter. The performance is 7 p.m. March 7 at the Hatcher Library.

The relationship between science and the arts was taken for granted in the 17th century. Galileo was a mathematician, physicist, and astronomer; but he was also an accomplished lutist, studied fine art, and taught perspective and chiaroscuro. Even today, a talent for math and music often overlap.

Support for this performance is provided by the Hudson Family Fund with fond remembrance of Martha and John Arthos.