The audience’s reaction to the “Who Are We?” talk and performance was overwhelming – everyone seemed to agree that it perfectly represented the spirit of “collaboration” between arts and science that Light in Winter is always striving to achieve.

Binghamton University biology professor David Sloan Wilson discussed examples from the animal world that illustrate that the ideas of personality and community are not unique to humans. His expertise in the field of evolutionary biology was clear.

Meanwhile, the four-person ensemble known as Water Bear performed three beautiful and unusual pieces. Led by violinist Mer Boel, the ensemble uses a system to map the letters of the alphabet to musical notes and thus create melodies out of words. The group performed songs based on the musical themes of words including “community,” “planetary we,” and their own names.

Mer Boel’s compositions were inspired by conversations with Professor Wilson, as well as having read his book “Evolution for Everyone.” In addition, their music was based heavily on improvisation, both as individuals and collaboratively as a group.

The audience clearly appreciated both Wilson’s biological insight and the musical interpretation and accompaniment that Water Bear provided. The two parts came together well, and audience members were quick to complement them on this. The question and answer session was full of inquiries for both Wilson and the musicians.