She has done so without seeking any monetary gain or promotions for herself.

Although she is 82 years old, she still books performances that help area seniors, local animal shelters, and any other group or organization that has a cause she supports.

Cadarette’s journey into music began when she was about 8 years old, when she began piano lessons in Alpena. The lessons didn’t last long, however, because her music instructor became upset with her because she wasn’t learning the sheet music and instead learned the notes, chords, and songs by ear.

Despite ending her lessons, Cadarette chipped away on the piano and learned complete songs. When she was 14 years old, she learned by ear how to play the accordion, and her father asked her to join the family band.

Courtesy Photo A young Carole Caderette plays the accordion in this undated photo provided by Cadarette. After learning how to play the piano by ear, Carole Cadarette learned how to play the accordion the same way. She said learning the instrument allowed her to perform polka music, which is popular in Northeast Michigan.

Little did Cadarette know, those first few shows with her father and uncle would lead to her becoming a staple in the Alpena-area music scene for more than a half of a century and record many original songs.

As her musical chops continue to improve and develop, Cadarette has learned how to play an autoharp, which is a string instrument that uses a series of bars individually configured to mute all strings other than those needed for the intended chord.

Later, she learned how to play the bass guitar, she said.

Cadarette said that, since she was a young girl, she always wanted to use her musical talent to help people and to make them feel better.

“I always did it as a way of giving back, from the time I was a little girl,” she said. “I would go out and sing for Mother’s Day events. I have played in all of the nursing homes, at the senior center, fundraisers, and even at the services of friends who passed away. I do it all for free and as a way of giving back.”

Courtesy Photo Carole Cadarette plays the autoharp in this undated photo provided by Cadarette. After seeing artists play an autoharp, Cadarette’s husband purchased one for her and she learned how to play it. She said she used to perform with just her harp and her voice.

Cadarette said that, over the years, she has amassed a catalog of music she can play on multiple instruments and can often take requests. From classic rock and country music to the blues, she said she and her bandmates offer a live music experience that most people will enjoy.

Over the years, Cadarette said, she has been able to watch the advancement in musical equipment technology. She said that, when she began, she played on a simple piano, but, now, she plays on a fully programmable electric keyboard that offers effects, a pre-programed drum machine, and the ability to easily adjust tuning.

She said that, though she is entering her golden years, she believes she still has a lot of music left to share with the people in the area and many people to help.

She said that, these days, she needs help loading and unloading her gear. Cadarette said that, right now, she is in good health and can continue performing for the immediate future. She said that, if she ever gets to the point where she can’t help the charities by playing music, there are other ways she can help.

“I would become a volunteer and lend a hand,” Cadarette said. “This community has always been very supportive of me, and I feel it is important for me to give back, just like I did when I was a young girl.”

Courtesy Photo Carole Cadarette plays the bass guitar in 1997 in this photo provided by Cadarette. She was always looking for ways to expand her knowledge of music and learn how to play new instruments. She added the bass guitar to her repertoire years ago.

Courtesy Photo Carole Cadarette poses with her bandmates in this December 2010 photo provided by Cadarette.

Courtesy Photo Carole Cadarette takes a break from performing at Turning Brook in Alpena to get a picture taken with Santa in this undated photo provided by Cadarette. She said she has played many senior dances and special events for seniors, all free of charge.

Courtesy Photo Carole Cadarette sits behind her electronic keyboard in this undated photo provided by Cadarette. She has played music for nearly 70 years and has watched the technology of musical gear change often. She loves her programmable keyboard that allows her to use effects and a drum machine.