Veteran performer Dar McCartney is no stranger to the stage, having performed for decades in private clubs and on main stages across the Midwest. Growing up with music and art on both sides of the family, it was only natural for Dar to develop her artistic side.

She picked up the drums when she was 10, and by the time she was 12, Dar was performing professionally, adding guitar, electric bass, and vocals to her repertoire. She even performed regularly with her mom, who played piano and organ. “We did a two-some,” said Dar, “playing in clubs on the weekends.”

As a young female drummer, Dar quickly caught the attention from other bands and added weeknight performances to her schedule. She’s backed a variety of cover performers throughout her long career, including Elvis impersonators, and even played on the main stage at the New Haven Canal Days.

What most people don’t know about this star-studded artist is her history as an overcomer. Born as a preemie twin, she developed thyroid disease at an early age and survived a surgery that could have left her without a voice. “I was the youngest person they’d ever seen with this condition,” she said. “I could have had a stroke. I’m grateful to be able to perform the way I have over the years. I give the praise to God.”

Dar also gives God the credit for the strength to keep pursuing her dreams, achieving milestones in art and sports as well as music. And she credits Karen Carpenter with her life-time inspiration for music. As a strong female vocalist and drummer, Carpenter became a role model for Dar as she forged her own path.

Throughout her career, Dar has found a way to give back, donating to Riley Hospital for Children in honor of her twin sister, who was born with a serious heart problem. She also supports the Muscular Dystrophy Association in honor of a classmate with MD.

Even her stint as a performer with Audiences Unlimited (AUI) dates back to Dar’s childhood years, when she helped take care of her maternal grandmother, “Nan Nan,” and played in private clubs for older audiences. “Everyone used to tell me I was born at the wrong time,” she joked. “I love the older generation and have always found it easy to connect with them.”

Dar’s reward when she plays for AUI is the tapping toes, clapping hands, and smiling faces she sees when she plays. “Sometimes they even get up to dance,” she said, “and when they share what my music means to them, it brings tears to my eyes. Performing for AUI is a form of music ministry for me. It’s so fulfilling. In many ways, it’s a gift my audiences give back to me.”

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