Arietta Ward, affectionately known as Mz. Etta, is an accomplished singer, songwriter, and performer whose career spans blues, jazz, soul, funk, and R&B. She began her musical journey alongside her mother, the late pianist and Northwest legend Janice Marie Scroggins, developing a versatile style that has made her a respected presence in the music industry.

Her remarkable career has included performances as a Featured Artist-at-Large at the 2023 Sawtooth Valley Gathering, appearances at the Portland Waterfront Blues Festival, and opening for the iconic Macy Gray at the historic Elsinore Theatre. She has also collaborated with acclaimed artists including Esperanza Spalding, Obo Addy, Linda Hornbuckle, Curtis Salgado, Jarrod Lawson, Nigel Hall, Tony Ozier, Tyrone Hendrix, and Farnell Newton.

Rather than defining her music by genre, Arietta focuses on authentic storytelling and the intention behind every performance. Beyond the stage, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Portland Folk Society, is a member of the Recording Academy Class of 2024, and was named Artist & Facilitator in Residence at the Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center through the City of Portland's Relief & Recovery for Artists of Color program. Through every performance, Arietta brings energy, passion, humor, and a genuine commitment to creating meaningful connections with her audience.