Martina McBride has set the standard for country singers who can really belt. Her miraculous voice has made hitting heavenly-high notes on such numbers as “This One’s for the Girls” and “A Broken Wing” seem downright easy.

But her singing isn’t just about that. It’s really about the emotions. If you managed to listen to her “Independence Day” or “I’m Gonna Love You Through It” and not get a little catch in your throat, well, then you don’t have a heart.

McBride is performing Thursday at the Garde Arts Center, and I dare say this just might be the country equivalent of the Melissa Etheridge concert at the Garde last year: big voices in an intimate venue, giving powerful concerts.

Martina McBride, 8 p.m. Thursday, Garde Arts Center, 325 State St., New London; $48-$98; (860) 444-7373.