Fernanda Lastra Hired as Guest Director for Buffalo State Philharmonia Orchestra

The Buffalo State University Music Department has hired Fernanda Lastra as guest director of the Buffalo State Philharmonia Orchestra for the 2024-2025 academic year.

Lastra, the assistant conductor for the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO), is well-known in the Western New York community. Named BPO Diversity Fellow in 2022, Lastra serves as assistant conductor, cover conductor, and main conductor for many BPO performances, including its kids' series, Music for Youth, Summer Concert Series, and community engagement performances. Lastra is also a member of the BPO's artistic team, music education committee, and Diversity Council.

Dr. Fernanda Lastra

"We are thrilled that Dr. Lastra is joining us this year," said Kerry Renzoni, Buffalo State associate professor of music and department chair. "She brings an impressive mixture of enthusiasm, conducting expertise, and experience engaging with the community."

In addition to regularly leading the BPO, Lastra serves as a guest conductor for several professional and youth orchestras.

"I am truly honored to have the opportunity to lead the university Philharmonia at Buffalo State this year," Lastra said. "As music has the power to unite us all, I'm excited to work with this ensemble, which brings together dedicated students and community members from across Western New York to create something very inspiring. I look forward to collaborating with Buffalo State's exceptional faculty and staff to continue creating meaningful musical experiences for our community and beyond."

Lastra earned two bachelor's degrees in orchestral and choral conducting from La Plata National University in Argentina, a master's degree in orchestral conducting from Penn State University, and a doctoral degree from the University of Iowa. In November, she will receive the Career Advancement Award at the Women in Classical Music Symposium, hosted by the Dallas Symphony.

Rockwell Hall photo by Jesse Steffan-Colucci, Buffalo State photographer; Lastra headshot courtesy of Fernanda Lastra.