Jane Aten, Gretchen Nichols and Mary Alice Rich met at work and discovered a common love of music.  Since Mary Alice and Jane are both violinists, and Gretchen plays the cello, Texas Winds String Trio was formed.  For the past year they have performed 60 concerts at hospitals and nursing homes throughout the Dallas area.  The group greatly enjoys giving of their time to others.  "We have often commented to each other that our job is to brighten the day of some folks who can't get out much, but what often ends up happening is that they are the ones who brighten our day,"remarked violinist Mary Alice.  The ensemble will be heading to Rockwall on October 19th for the upcoming Alliance for the Arts fundraising gala.  The event which will take place on October 19th at the Hilton Bella Harbor will include a sit-down dinner during which the trio will provide background music.  In addition, the three musicians have agreed to auction off their services to the highest bidder during the auction portion of the evening.  All three women work primarily as private music teachers.  Gretchen also works free-lance and coaches cellists for the prestigious Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra.  Jane is a highly-respected educator who is often called upon for consultation and curriculum.  Her book on teaching in the inner-city is published through the American String Teachers Association.  Mary Alice is a published orchestral composer and winner of three national compositions contests.  Having  a group of such distinguished musicians will greatly enhance the ambiance at the Alliance Gala which will also include cocktails and ballroom dancing in addition to dinner and art auction.