The Poinsett Trio, whose day jobs are faculty at Furman University, played a fine mix of chamber music for an appreciative, if relatively small, audience.

The rain and very real threat of possible tornadic winds doubtless deterred some, but the hardy souls who occupied all the pews in the Landrum Methodist Church received a blessing indeed.

Pianist David Gross had the barn-door-sized lid of the Boston piano up on the long prop, so had to control its big voice — and well he did, as he brought thunder when required and blended when appropriate. He played all of his notes distinctly, even in rapid scale work. I was not in a position to see how he did it, but I was more than pleased with his playing.

Violinist Deirdre Hutton came out early to tune to the piano, so I was pleased to hold down the A key for her. I well remember the difficulty I had with those tapered pegs, loosening them to turn them, but having to leave them tight enough to hold. Her lovely red dress did not escape my appreciative attention, either.

Her husband, Christopher, brought his cello out later with the group, and told us a bit about the music we were to hear after tuning. I am wary of music composed in the 20th century, but I am actually beginning to enjoy some of it. The Amy Beach Trio I heard today was easy to enjoy.

Of course, the familiar Beethoven with its rollicking finale was welcome, as well as the Rachmaninoff, with its challenges for everybody as they repeated the themes on their own instrument.

We were also treated to a feast prepared by Suzanne Strickland of Stone Soup. Delicious!

And I understand that a grant from the Polk County Community Foundation helped to support the program. Thank you!

Garland O. Goodwin, Columbus