The president and CEO of the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts shares his Spotify list, favorite concerts and a mantra we love.
Arvind Manocha, Wolf Trap’s president and CEO
Arvind Manocha recently celebrated a decade at Wolf Trap, a place he has transformed dramatically with the help of a visionary board, hundreds of generous donors and thousands of patrons who can’t imagine spending a summer night or winter evening anywhere else. We caught up with the president and CEO on the heels of the Wolf Trap Ball and a capital campaign that raised $75 million for improvements and education.
Best life advice you ever received?
It came from my parents— be yourself.
Best career advice you ever received?
My early mentor at McKinsey, Bob Attiyeh, said to listen very carefully.
Best concerts you’ve ever seen?
I’ve seen thousands, so that’s hard to say, but my favorites were Robyn+Royksopp in 2014, Rolling Stones in 2005 and London Suede in 2022.
What’s on your Spotify playlist right now?
“Modern Love” by Jake Wesley Rogers, “Utah” by Madison McFerrin and “Let the Sun Come In” by The Pretenders
When are you happiest?
When I’m with my husband
What’s your greatest weakness?
Sesame sticks
What documentary have you recommended the most lately?
Wild Wild Country, a Duplass
Brothers production for Netflix Favorite getaway?
I just returned from India. [I love the] Umaid Bhawan Palace (tojhotels.com) in Jodhpur
Favorite DC arts space? Other than Wolf Trap?
Glenstone (glenstone.org) in Maryland
What are you most excited about at Wolf Trap in 2024?
The new Meadow Commons building—and some fabulous concerts we haven’t booked yet.
What’s your mantra?
Never say no to cheese.
What would you say to your 21-year-old self?
It’s hard to imagine, but life gets infinitely more interesting.
Photography by: COURTESY OF WOLF TRAP
