The Only Girl in the Orchestra

2023·35'

Molly O'Brien

DocumentaryMusic

★ 6.6

Letterboxd TMDB #1195310

Trailblazing double bassist Orin O'Brien never wanted the spotlight, but when Leonard Bernstein hired her in 1966 as the first female musician in the New York Philarmonic, it was inevitable that she would become the focus of much interest and fascination. Now 87 years old and recently retired, Orin looks back on her remarkable life and career, insisting that a fuss should not be made, much preferring to play a supporting role to the family, students, friends, and colleagues that surround her.

Cast

Orin O'Brien Self

Molly O'Brien Self / Narrator

George O'Brien Self (archive footage) (uncredited)

Marguerite Churchill Self (archive footage) (uncredited)

Leonard Bernstein Self (archive footage) (uncredited)