The Savannah Folk Music Society is pleased to welcome back Jack Williams for a concert on Aug. 15. The concert begins at 8 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 520 E. Washington Ave. in Savannah.

South Carolinian Jack Williams, guitarist/singer/songwriter/storyteller, is outstanding among a handful of artists who — in skill, depth and integrity — stand head and shoulders above most performers flooding today’s folk circuit.

Among acoustic guitarists he is legendary.

“The best guitar player I have ever heard,” according to Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary.

Having avoided the compromises of the commercial music industry during his 50-year professional career, he prefers touring “under the radar,” playing concerts, large and small, week in and week out, from the sheer love of music and performing.

Williams is a sought-after artist on contemporary acoustic — or “folk” — music stages. From his acclaimed appearances at the Newport, Boston, Philadelphia, Kerrville, (New Bedford) SummerFest and other folk festivals, including the Savannah Folk Music Festival, his musicianship, songs, stories and commanding presence established him as an uncommonly inspiring and influential performer.

Williams has six CDs of original music on the Wind River (Folk Era) label, plus his DVD “High Cotton,” an eclectic collection of on-stage performances. His seventh and newest CD, “Don’t Let Go,” is a collection of cover songs reflecting the major influences on his musical development.

As a guitarist, he accompanied Tom Paxton, Peter Yarrow, Arlo Guthrie, and two dear friends, the late Mickey Newbury and Harry Nilsson.

Mickey Newbury said, “Jack and his music are an American treasure.”

Williams’ career has been nothing if not eclectic. He played trumpet in a jazz quartet in a beatnik coffeehouse in Seattle in 1959,  reading poetry to the audience during breaks.

He learned banjo and mandolin to spice up folk groups in the ’60’s in Georgia. He played pedal-steel guitar in a country-rock band, and classical guitar/lute in a Renaissance ensemble.

Tickets at the door will be $10 for the public, $8 for SFMS members and $5 for students/children.

For more information, call 786-6953 or on the web, www.savannahfolk.org.