Personal tragedy is the motivation for Andrew
He has performed all over the world and is one of Scotland’s finest traditional folk singers.
And now the people of Perth are in for a treat when Andrew Gordon plays a charity fundraiser at South Street’s Greyfriars Bar this evening (October 4).
The well-travelled 42-year-old is on a mission to raise as much as possible for two charities supporting baby loss, a subject which sits close to his heart.
Money raised at tonight’s much-anticipated gig, which begins at 8pm with free entry, will go towards Tommy’s and the Miscarriage Association.
Andrew explained: “Tommy’s and Miscarriage Association help people dealing with baby loss. My partner and I had four miscarriages over the last four years or so.
“We decided they would be good charities to support. I do fundraising nearly every year, but every five years do a big batch. Greyfriars has been really generous.
“I don’t take a fee for the night, but for that they double up the money which all goes to the charity. They are donating £300 to the charities which is brilliant.
“I grew up in Perth and went to Oakbank Primary and then Perth High School. I lived there until after I went to university.
“I have a long history of performing in Perth and did my first concert there back in 1994. That was one of the main reasons for doing it.
“The other reason is that I’ve got a long history of playing at the Greyfriars and have done a few fundraisers with them. They’ve always been really good.
“It’s always good fun in Greyfriars, with people getting into it and clapping along.”
Fort William-born Andrew, who has recently returned from performing to enthusiastic German crowds, is proud to show off the best of traditional folk music.
The Greyfriars gig will cater for all and, for sure, those in attendance will be leaving the venue with a smile on their face. “This time it will be a mix of sing-a-longs, battle songs, ballads and a few funny ones,” Andrew told the Perthshire Advertiser.
“I’ve been doing a lot in Germany this year and in August I did 12 concerts over there. I’m back over on October 18. Germany is a really big market for me.
“But there’s something really compelling about small gigs because you’re right next to your audience and can see the whites of their eyes.
“When the audience are sitting right in front of you, you can just speak to them and that is great. When I’ve been in Greyfriars the music has been well-received.
“It would be great for people to come out and support some great charities. Even if those coming along don’t donate, it’s a free night of entertainment.
“And they’ll get a laugh and a sing-a-long. If they fancy donating some extra money to the charity, that would be brilliant.”
Tonight’s event at the Greyfriars begins at 8pm and will run through until around 11pm. Entry is free.