Pocket Full of Soul

The definitive film on the harmonica … a comprehensive exploration of the culture, the players, the politics, and of course the music associated with the only instrument where one must breathe naturally to produce sound. This simple act, breathing through the harmonica, forms an undeniable connection between the player and the instrument as it captures the body and spirit of each individual musician that puts it to their mouth. It’s truly a universal phenomenon and the sound, well, it’s undeniable.

Every musician embarks on a journey, and as Pocket Full of Soul was coming together, there was a realization that a vast majority of these journeys have involved the harmonica to some extent. Sure the harmonica is a pure and simple staple of the blues and rock, but also a constant in big-band, be-bop, polka, Classical, and Jazz. For those that made it “their” instrument, the journeys, more like odysseys, took these respective musicians deep inside the instrument. They would discover the power, the mystery, and musicality of the instrument, once considered a toy, as only those who truly embrace it and make it a part of their life can understand. Through interviews, instruction and candid discussion laced with pure passion and a seemingly dire need to play the harp, Pocket Full of Soul literally puts you face to face with the instrument.

With Huey Lewis as the narrator, Pocket Full of Soul travels the world to illustrate and educate on the instrument’s history, versatility, and present impact. Interviews, stories, how-to’s and stellar performances by masters like James Cotton, Charlie Musselwhite, John Popper, Magic Dick, Lee Oskar, Rick Estrin, Delbert McClinton, Jerry Portnoy, Kim Wilson and Jason Ricci should be thrilling enough to get you to dig that old harmonica … and breathe some music.

Non-profit:

Pocket Full of Soul is now a 501(c)3 non-profit. Pocket Full of Soul’s mission is (i) to raise money for music related educational, health and preservation causes; and (ii) to engage in or perform any and all activities that are related to or incidental to the forgoing and that may be lawfully conducted by a non-profit corporation under the Texas and Business and Organization Act.

Marc Lempert (Producer and Director)

Filmmaker Marc Lempert consistently creates stimulating, provocative visuals that never lose sight of what the film and video medium is intended to do - tell stories. As a multi-media production specialist and founder of the cross-platform content generator, Groove Gallery, Marc has compiled an extensive body of work for a growing list of clients. Recently, he launched Memory Ball Films, a documentary service dedicated to the production, capture and preservation of life-stories and legacy events. His list of credits includes feature films, documentaries, shorts, commercials, and music videos. Marc has a B.A. from Washington University in St. Louis and an MFA from UCLA in film directing and production.

Todd Slobin (Producer)

Todd has always had an interest and music and film. Pocket Full of Soul has given Todd the opportunity to combine those interests. Todd is an attorney by day and is Board Certified in Labor & Employment Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. In addition, Todd has also received an Independent Filmmaker’s Diploma and Producer’s Diploma from the Hollywood Film Institute.

For non-profit initiatives, donations, and/or to schedule a screening contact Marc Lempert at marc@pocketfullofsoulmovie.com or Todd Slobin at todd@pocketfullofsoulmovie.com.