Wolf Trap Staff Picks

Jun 12, 2019

Wolf Trap Foundation staff comes from diverse backgrounds with a variety of life experiences. But one thing they all have in common is a love of music and live performances, especially at Wolf Trap. We took an informal poll of staff to find out what concert they were most looking forward to this summer. Along the way, we got some insight into their personalities and some great tips on new music to try this summer. If you are thinking about adding some more concerts to your summer plans, you may discover your new favorite artist among the suggestions below.

Rock of Ages – Tue, Jun 18 + Wed, Jun 19

I am most looking forward to Rock of Ages because I love musicals and enjoy having the opportunity to see them at a unique venue like Wolf Trap. I am also excited about Weird Al Yankovic with the National Symphony Orchestra because my husband’s eyes lit up when I told him Weird Al was coming here this summer and it’s a great show to see with friends!

—Nessa Ferrell, Coordinator, Social Communications

Diana Ross – Thu, Jun 27

Diana Ross – I grew up just outside of Detroit and am a huge Motown fan! Also, Jackson Browne because he is a great singer song writer.

—Todd Glowacki, Senior Systems Administrator

Earth, Wind and Fire – Tue, Jul 2

Earth, Wind and Fire puts on a stellar performance-you can’t resist being up on your feet & dancing. I took my parents last time they were here and it brought back a lot of great memories of when we used to blast their cassette tape on the way to soccer practice as a kid.

—Jessica Aylor, Financial Analyst

American Ballet Theatre | Swan Lake – Thu, Jul 11 – Sat, Jul 13

American Ballet Theatre’s Swan Lake! I always love seeing dance in an outdoor setting like Wolf Trap. There’s something so magical about being drawn into the live music, dancers and amazing scenery and costumes onstage while being surrounded by nature.

—Rachel Duzen, Coordinator, Planned Giving

Tedeschi Trucks Band – Wed, Jul 17

This will be the third summer Tedeschi Trucks Band performs at Wolf Trap and the third time my husband and I will be there! We “discovered” them in 2017 when we went to hear the opening act and Derek Trucks dazzling guitar playing and Susan Tedeschi’s soulful voice blew us away. The energy of the band and the fans makes for an incredibly exciting evening at Wolf Trap.

—Margaret Berardelli, Director, Annual Giving

SOJA | Sublime with Rome – Sat, Jul 20

I am very excited to see SOJA and Sublime with Rome – the perfect way to celebrate summer!

—Sara Shaffer, Director, Art

Noseda Conducts Tchaikovsky & Beethoven – Fri, Jul 26

I cannot wait to see Noseda Conducts Tchaikovsky & Beethoven with the National Symphony Orchestra. Back when I was a teenager, my high school orchestra performed the lesser-known second movement from Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, and I’ve grown to love this slow movement even more than the famous first movement—there are so many musical moments that give me allover-goosebumps. And the fact that it’s Gianandrea Noseda’s Wolf Trap debut makes it even more exciting!

—Rebecca Roberts, Manager, Digital Donor Communications

Herbie Hancock and Kamasi Washington – Tue, Jul 30

I am really looking forward to seeing Herbie Hancock and Kamasi Washington. They are both amazing jazz musicians and hearing them in one concert is a rare treat. In fact, the concert at Wolf Trap is the first show on their tour. Herbie Hancock is a legendary figure in modern jazz, while Kamasi Washington is a newly risen jazz star. I’ve never been to their live performances before, so really excited about this opportunity.

—Katya Fentsova, Assistant, Program & Production

Lyle Lovett & His Large Band – Thu, Aug 1

I am looking forward to Lyle Lovett and Mavis Staples. My husband and I always catch the Lyle Lovett show—he is one of our favorites (and our baby is named Lyle too so that makes it extra special). I’m particularly excited about seeing him with Mavis. I’ve been trying to see her for years but it has never worked out. She’s having a big moment right now! She has new music out and has collaborating with a lot of Wolf Trap favorite artists including Sheryl Crow and Bonnie Raitt. I think she and Lyle are going to sound great together!

—Mary Addie, Program Coordinator, National and Affiliate Services, Wolf Trap Institute

Rossini’s The Barber of Seville – Fri, Aug 9

Rossini’s The Barber of Seville by Wolf Trap Opera because I’m excited to see a comedic opera!

—Clarisse Gaillard, Graphic Designer

Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band – Sat, Aug 10 + Sun, Aug 11

The concert we’re most looking forward to is Ringo Starr. When my daughter was a baby, the only thing that would keep her happy in her car seat was listening to Yellow Submarine. On repeat. For hours. How could we miss a chance to see Ringo while he’s here?

—Kelley Choi, Program Coordinator, DC/MD/VA Program, Wolf Trap Institute

Kacey Musgraves – Sat, Sep 7

Kacey Musgraves because Golden Hour has become one of my favorite albums!

—Megan Mansell, Coordinator, Marketing