Born in Mar del Plata, Argentina, Fernanda Lastra is a passionate and creative conductor, recognized for her artistic leadership and captivating performances. Deeply committed to fostering music appreciation across all ages, she designs well-balanced programs that enrich the concert experience, guided by her belief in the power of music to unite, heal, and nurture emotional intelligence. Equally devoted to building meaningful connections within the community, she strives to create a vibrant musical legacy for future generations. Lastra is also a dedicated advocate for Latin American composers, with a special focus on preserving and promoting Argentina’s musical heritage.

From September 2022 to August 2025, Fernanda Lastra held the position of Assistant Conductor for the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, under the mentorship of JoAnn Falletta. In this role, Lastra served as an assistant and cover conductor for the entire BPO season, while also leading the orchestra as principal conductor for the Family Kids Series, Music for Youth concerts, community engagement performances, and summer concerts. In addition, she contributed to the orchestra’s Artistic Team by designing engaging and innovative programs, and she was an active member of the Music Education Committee and Diversity Council. In May 2025, Lastra made her debut with the Buffalo Philharmonic in the Classic Series featuring pianist Avery Gagliano.

As assistant and cover conductor, Lastra has worked alongside distinguished conductors including JoAnn Falletta, Edward Gardner, Giancarlo Guerrero, Maximiano Valdés, and Josep Caballé‑Domenech, among others. She has also collaborated with artists such as Aida Cuevas, Jay White, Jeans ’n Classics, Michael Grandinetti, and Troupe Vertigo in Pops and Special concerts.

Today, Fernanda Lastra appears regularly as a guest conductor with professional and youth orchestras across the United States and abroad. Past highlights include concerts with The Syracuse Orchestra, the Pennsylvania Chamber Orchestra, and the South Bend Symphony Orchestra. Upcoming engagements include appearances with the Great Falls Symphony, Portland Symphony Orchestra, Tucson Symphony Orchestra, and the Orquesta Sinfónica de la Universidad de México (OFUNAM) in Mexico City.