A Banchory businessman is combining his passion for music with his personal experience as a parent to create a special fundraising event in support of local charity, Archway.
Ed Gardyne, who runs the successful Banchory-based company Safewell, and is also the current chair of Archway, is the driving force behind “Archway at the Barn”, an inclusive evening of music and storytelling taking place at The Barn, Banchory on Friday, April 24.
While Ed is well known locally for his business success, music has always played an important role in his life. A lifelong amateur musician, he has often turned to music as a way to reflect, process emotions and find comfort — particularly in his journey as a parent.
Ed’s daughter, Hannah, has a profound learning disability and has been supported by Archway for many years. Like many families, Ed and his wife have experienced both the challenges and the deep love that come with caring for a child with complex needs. Music has provided Ed with a powerful outlet — even inspiring him to write a song about his experiences as a parent, capturing the emotions, resilience and unconditional love that define that journey.
It is this deeply personal connection that inspired Ed to create Archway at the Barn — an evening that brings people together through music, shared experiences and community spirit.
Ed Gardyne
The event will feature a line-up of local musicians, including Ed himself, alongside fellow performers Paul Foy, Mike Bowyer, Morgan Thomson, Pearl Peterkin, Jim Christie and Davey Peterson, many of whom share a connection to Archway. Some of the songs performed on the night will hold particular meaning for families of children with learning disabilities, while others simply celebrate the joy of music and togetherness.
Ed said: “Music has always been something I’ve turned to — it helps you say the things that are sometimes hard to put into words. Archway has been such an important part of our lives as a family, and I wanted to create something that not only raises funds but also brings people together and reflects those shared experiences.”
Archway is a local, parent-led charity that supports almost 200 children and adults with learning disabilities and their families across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. Events like this play a vital role in helping the charity continue its work.
Janine Davies, PR & Fundraising Manager at Archway, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Ed for his vision and passion in bringing this event to life. It is not only a fantastic fundraising opportunity, but also a powerful reminder of the role music and community can play in connecting people and sharing experiences.”
Archway at the Barn, which is already a sell out, promises to be an uplifting and memorable evening, open to all who enjoy live music, great company and supporting a meaningful cause.