If you are downtown on Wednesday, May 18^th at noon, you might just hear the strains of an Irish tune drifting from the Pell City Library.  It’s time for Wild and Wonderful Wednesday, and this month’s guests, Jil Chambless and Robert (Scooter) Muse have a repertoire of Celtic tunes that is sure to please, whatever your longing.  Whether you love a heart-rending ballad or a traditional jig or reel, you’ll find a familiar melody guaranteed to get your toes tapping.  .

This musical duo brings a wealth of musical talent and experience.  Jil Chambless, is a native of Montgomery, Alabama who came to Tuscaloosa to attend the University of Alabama.  She linked up with the Celtic Band, Henri’s Notions during the 1980’s with whom she performs lead vocals and plays the flute and whistles.  She is considered to be one of America’s top Celtic music vocalists.  In addition to her affiliation with Henri’s Notions, and her duo act with Scooter Muse, Ms. Chambless also performs in a trio act with Muse, and Ed Miller, and with Vogt Family Contra Band.  Henri’s Notions has completed six recording projects with Ms. Chambless, and with this group she has performed at various venues throughout the nation. She has recently released a solo CD, entitled, “The Ladies Go Dancing,” produced by the legendary Brian McNeill.

Scooter Muse began his musical career playing Bluegrass Music.  He has won eight State of Alabama and Tennessee Valley Championship titles for 5-String and Old Time Banjos.  About 25 years ago, he began to explore the Celtic music genre, learning jigs and reels on the banjo and the guitar.  From 1994 until 2002 he founded and led the celebrated Celtic Band, The Full Moon Ensemble.  He toured with this band all over the United States, Canada and Scotland.    He joined Henri’s Notions after The Full Moon Ensemble went their separate ways in 2002.  He has recorded his first solo CD, “Saddell Abbey,” which includes 12 original compositions for acoustic guitar, including selections set to the poetry of Robert Burns.

The program of Celtic music at the Pell City Library is free and open to the public.  It is made possible by an LSTA grant awarded by the Alabama Public Library Service and by matching funds provided by the Pell City Library Guild.  Light refreshments will be served following the program.