By Michael W. Gurley

On a stormy evening last Thursday, one could find refuge and relaxation in the Riney Fine Arts Center lobby in the form of the Chamber Wind and Strings Play and Munch. This friendly and low-key event, which has been held in locations off-campus in the past, combined music, art and snacks free of charge into a sonorous, refreshing wind-down for anyone and everyone.

Rachelle Goter, clarinet teacher and organizer of the event, set the tone for the evening as she addressed the audience wearing jeans and a blouse, inviting everyone to partake in the refreshments at their leisure and relax and enjoy the show.

The Alexander string quartet kicked off the music with an energetic opening that promised a successful show. Next was the Friends University flute choir that kept up the pace with high pitched trills and floating melodies.

After the flutes was the Friends cello quartet, which pulled back the pace and lowered the energy with a deep and soothing performance.

But the lull did not last long.

Next up was the Friends piano trio that picked the pace back up with a punchy number replete with impressive piano riffs and lightning outside for effect.

Enter Clari in Four, a clarinet quartet, for a return to the wind instruments. They played three tunes and kept the energy high.

The final group to play was the Falcon string quartet. Their first piece was an impressive work that they were premiering to the public. They finished the show with an intense but pleasant piece.

Artwork from Christopher Gulick, all inspired by the mobile hanging in the center of the lobby, hung on the walls to be enjoyed during the performances, and a table full of snacks and refreshments was available throughout.

Despite the slight thunderstorm that went on outside, inside the Riney lobby was a pleasant and relaxed environment of music, art and snacks that everyone enjoyed.