Fernanda Lastra

Born in Mar del Plata, Argentina, Fernanda Lastra is a passionate and creative conductor interested in a wide variety of repertoire, including symphonic, contemporary, and operatic works. She is a strong advocate for Latin American composers, especially those from Argentina.

Under the mentorship of JoAnn Falletta, Fernanda was appointed Conductor Diversity Fellow at the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra in 2022. In this role, Fernanda serves as an assistant conductor, cover conductor, and main conductor for the BPO Family Kids and Music for Youth concert series. She also serves on the BPO's artistic team, music education committee, and Diversity Council, among other responsibilities.

As guest conductor Fernanda Lastra has led professional and youth orchestras in the United States, Argentina, and Brazil. Some of her previous engagements include conducting the National Orchestra of Argentine Music "Juan de Dios Filiberto" at the CCK National Auditorium in Buenos Aires, and the production of Missy Mazzoli's opera Song from the Uproar in collaboration with Demaskus Theatre and Kassia Ensemble in Pittsburgh.

Fernanda holds two bachelor’s degrees from La Plata University in Argentina, a master’s degree from Penn State University and a doctoral degree from The University of Iowa.

Fernanda believes music can create meaningful connections with one another.