Arietta Ward - Sunday Concert Series
ARIETTA WARD
Funk.& Soul Music
Arietta Ward is a Portland-based vocalist, bandleader, and cultural artist known for her powerful, genre-blending performances rooted in soul, jazz, blues, funk, and R&B. Often performing under the name “Mz. Etta,” she is widely recognized as a pillar of Portland’s music scene and a torchbearer of its rich musical traditions. The daughter of acclaimed pianist Janice Scroggins, Ward grew up immersed in the region’s vibrant musical community and has carried forward that legacy through her own dynamic voice and storytelling. Her performances are known for their emotional depth, charisma, and authenticity, with a style that resists being confined to a single genre and instead focuses on the intent and message behind the music.
Throughout her career, Ward has collaborated with a wide range of acclaimed artists and performed at major festivals and venues, including the Waterfront Blues Festival. She is deeply connected to Portland’s Albina music community and is committed to preserving and advancing its cultural legacy through performance, mentorship, and community-based projects. Known for her versatility and commanding stage presence, Ward brings humor, heart, and lived experience into every performance, viewing her work as a way to tell meaningful stories and connect with audiences.