Gavin finds key to charity fundraising

AN Angus accordionist’s virtual lockdown gigs have been music to the ears of a children’s charity which received more than £1,500 in donations.

Gavin Piper is used to performing live but with concerts cancelled during the pandemic he decided to take his gigs online.

And, mindful of the impact Covid-19 has had on charities’ funding, he decided to raise cash for Dundee charity Help for Kids, where his partner Derek Miller is a trustee.

The 43-year-old performs a mix of ceilidh, classical and more modern tunes to the delight of fans of the squeezebox.

He said: “It’s quite good. There is lots of banter and some people are wearing fancy dress.

“Folk are asking for classical music as well as Westlife and the Bay City Rollers. It’s really varied.

It’s a bit of fun. I’ll keep doing it until we go out playing gigs again.”

Every Monday, Gavin asks people for their requests and by the next day there can be anything between 30-40 requests.

He will then put into an order before posting online so people know when their song will appear that week.

Gavin, from Letham, said it has also allowed people to connect with one another online and have conversations while he plays.

He added: “Some people are donating £30 or £40. We’ve had quite a few cheques through for £100. It’s quite amazing.

“We have supported the charity for quite a while. The money goes directly to people that are needing it and the charity vets everyone.”

Hannah Kemlo, charity co-ordinator at Help For Kids, said: “Gavin is a great supporter of our charity and since lockdown has been holding a live virtual dance concert on his Facebook page every Wednesday night.

“Along with entertaining everyone he has been appealing to his friends and family to make a donation to the charity via our JustGiving appeal page if they can.

“We can’t thank Gavin enough for his support over these last few months and of course to every single person who has taken the time to donate towards our appeal.”

Hannah said the money would be used to continue to support local families who are struggling with buying the basic necessities.

To donate to the Help For Kids appeal, visit JustGiving and search “Help For Kids Appeal”.

Accordionist Gavin Piper has been raising money for charity through his online concerts.