Lynn, Mass. – North Shore Medical Center (NSMC) is bringing the healing powers of nature and music together at the Dr. Harvey Zarren Healing Gardens at Union Hospital in Lynn. The pastoral care services department at NSMC has organized a free lunchtime concert series in the gardens for patients, staff and visitors.

The first concert will feature local harpist Maggie Keelan. Playing the "instrument of the angels" since the age of 10, Maggie has gained regional acclaim on the Irish folk harp in music from the Renaissance to Broadway and film standards.

The second concert will feature New England folk musician Annie Britton. She has an eclectic background that includes everything from musical theater to theology. Britton’s music is lively, upbeat and fun to listen to.

Both concerts are being held in the Dr. Harvey Zarren Healing Gardens. Through more than $400,000 in donations, the 23,000 square foot woodland area behind the hospital’s healing atrium has been transformed into a series of walkways that connect a dozen unique garden areas for patients to enjoy.

The gardens feature paths that are accessible for wheelchairs and hospital beds, enabling even seriously ill patients to spend time with their loved ones in the peaceful setting of familiar trees, flowers, and birds that have marked their lives on the North Shore.

Photo Opportunity:

What: Lunchtime concerts at the Dr. Harvey Zarren Healing Garden
When: Tuesday, August 19, 2008 – featuring Maggie Keelan
Noon – 1 p.m.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008 – featuring Annie Britton
Noon – 1 p.m.
Where NSMC Union Hospital
500 Lynnfield Street
Lynn, MA
(Parking is available behind the West Medical Office Building)