A Celtic concert was brought to the parking lot of Hampton House, 1802 Lincoln Ave., Northampton, for a celebration of health and wellness for its senior residents Oct. 17.

The facility has been isolated for a good portion of the year since the community is so prone to disease outbreaks. Michaelina Mezzina, property manager, acted swiftly at the beginning of spring by increasing staff, restricting outside visitation and modifying daily activities due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Her efforts shined true as the building remained 100-percent COVID-19 free.

Mezzina explained morale sunk as social interactions became scarce and loneliness grew. In a collaborative effort, Mezzina partnered with Gene Kutzler to bring his two Celtic bands, The Celtic Adventure and Celtic United Pipes and Drums, to the residents.

Kutzler, who was a mail carrier for 15 years and delivered to the Hampton House, understood the loneliness that lingered in their isolated halls. Additionally, Kutzler’s bands have not been able to perform much this year.

With Mezzina wishing to entertain and Kutzler itching to play, the timing seemed right to pour into the parking lot for a socially distant, outdoor Celtic concert. The residents sat in small groups and spaced apart.

Additional gifts and snacks were provided, thanks to sponsors Lehigh Valley Physical Therapy, Humana, Senior Life, Restore Core and the Northampton Police Department.

The crowd first enjoyed the duo group, The Celtic Adventure, comprised of Kutzler and his cousin Al Wallitsch. The two have been playing together for about eight years. The duo warmed up the crowd with early 1970s soft rock, some Beatles songs and, of course, Celtic music.

After their performance, Kutzler joined his eight-person band, Celtic United Pipes and Drums. The full Celtic band marched in with the pipes playing proudly and the drums booming dramatically as energetic smiles filled the crowd.

The event was a huge success. It was the most fun the residents had been able to experience in months, it was reported.

“The people [at Hampton House] are wonderful, especially the ones that run that place,” said Kutzler, referencing Mezzina. “She tries to get different things going for the residents, who were ecstatic for the musical entertainment.”