Fernanda Lastra
Music Director Candidate
Born in Mar del Plata, Argentina, Fernanda Lastra is a passionate and imaginative conductor known for her artistic leadership and captivating performances. Deeply committed to making orchestral music engaging and meaningful for audiences of all ages, she develops programs that spark curiosity, foster connection, and expand the concert experience. Equally dedicated to building connections within the community, Lastra strives to create a vibrant musical legacy for future generations guided by her belief in the power of music to unite, heal, and nurture emotional intelligence. She is also a devoted advocate for Latin American composers with a special focus on preserving and promoting Argentina’s rich musical heritage.
What’s your proudest accomplishment?
To keep moving forward despite uncertainty.
What makes you laugh the most?
I wouldn’t say “the most,” but one thing that comes to mind is an Argentine advertising campaign from the ‘90s called La llama que llama.
What would you sing at karaoke night?
Something upbeat—perhaps a song by Los Fabulosos Cadillacs, an Argentine band.
What’s your favorite movie?
I don’t have a single favorite movie, but if I had to choose one, I’d say Midnight in Paris.
If you could spend a day anywhere in the world, where would it be?
In my hometown of Mar del Plata during the summer at the beach with friends and family.
What’s your favorite childhood memory?
Sunday lunches at my grandparents’ house surrounded by family. The menu: asado and much love.
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
That I’m fascinated by fonts, logos, and the stories behind them.
What’s your go-to comfort food?
Trader Joe’s Brazilian cheese bread. It reminds me of home.
If you weren’t a conductor, what career would you have pursued?
Design or any creative work that allows me to explore imagination and beauty.
What book are you currently reading (or have read recently that you loved)?
I’m currently reading El infinito en un junco by Irene Vallejo about the origins of books. Before that, I read City of Light by Lauren Belfer, a novel set in Buffalo, New York, where I currently live. Both lovely books.
What piece of music never fails to move you?
The “epilogue” of Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet Overture-Fantasy, at the very end, after the timpani solo.
If it were your final moment on Earth and you had to pick one piece of music to listen to, what would it be?
This changes all the time. Today, I would say Mahler 2, second movement.
Coffee or tea?
Coffee in the morning, tea before bed.
Morning person or night owl?
Mostly a morning person, but it depends.
Beach or mountains?
I was born in a beach town, so I love (and deeply miss) the ocean. At the same time, I truly enjoy the mountains and I admire the majestic way they stand in the world. I’d say the beach for living, the mountains for traveling.
Dogs or cats?
Dogs—although I’ve never had a cat, so I should probably live with one before taking a position on this.
Sweet or savory?
Savory.
Favorite season?
Spring. And fall!
Window or aisle seat?
Window.
Sunrise or sunset?
I truly love them both! I’d even say they are my two favorite moments of the day.
Favorite holiday?
New Year’s Eve. Tons of possibilities just around the corner.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
“Never give up.”