On Wednesday, August 17 at noon, the Pell City Public Library welcomes award-winning singer, song-writer, and multi-instrumentalist, Sam Pointer, as he presents, “The Great American Songbook.” With his extensive repertoire, expect an entertaining mix of vocals and instrumentals that you know and love, be it Blues, Bluegrass, or Broadway as Sam takes us on a musical journey of popular tunes in America for the last several decades! Sam has an uncanny ability to resonate with his audience, so don’t be surprised if you find your feet tapping and your voice raised in song! Pointer will entertain in the library as special guest performer for the finale to the Adult Summer Reading Program 2016.

Sam Pointer began playing music at the age of six. Though he is best known for his finesse as a guitarist, playing acoustic, electric, slide, and 12-string guitars, Pointer has also mastered the bass guitar, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, and bouzouki. 

As a vocalist, his rich baritone voice is equally at home with everything from ballad to rock. His talent, and range and diversity of style have afforded him opportunities to play solo as well as a part of various bands at top venues across the country. He toured nationally for many years as lead guitarist for the ground-breaking jam band, New Potato Caboose. He was a member of the California blue grass band, Snakes in the Grass, and later led The Sam Pointer Band, a San Francisco based rock ensemble, before deciding to return to Birmingham, where he plays solo acoustic gigs, and as part of several other bands and acts. His skill as an instrumentalist led to prizes won on the guitar and mandolin at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, and the Ed Bell Blues Competition and led to numerous invitations to perform as a session player and sideman. In addition to his performance schedule, Pointer finds time to share his expertise through teaching students on an ongoing basis.

Pointer’s performance in the library will include a pleasing repertoire of beloved songs popular throughout American history, incorporating his skill with various instruments and musical styles. Following the performance, the library will draw for prizes in connection with its 2016 Adult Summer Reading Program. Throughout this initiative, registered participants have been encouraged to read books of their choice and to place an entry “in the hat” for each completed book read. Each Friday afternoon, and at the finale, participates have the opportunity to win prizes if their names are drawn from this collection of entries. The prizes include special donations from local businesses, the Pell City Library Guild, and individual sponsors. The Pell City Library staff acknowledges, with gratitude, the donations made by these donors. It is through their generosity that the Adult Summer Reading Initiative is made possible.

The fun-filled event is free and open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Expect spectacular music, fantastic food, and fabulous prizes. You will not want to miss it!