“The Only Girl in the Orchestra” is a documentary about Orin O’Brien. It is directed by Molly O’Brien.
Netflix’s latest documentary, “The Only Girl in the Orchestra”, offers an intimate look at the life of Orin O’Brien, a trailblazing musician who became the first woman to join the New York Philharmonic Orchestra in the 1960s. Directed by her niece, Molly O’Brien, the film paints a portrait of a woman whose passion for music shaped her remarkable career.
Born to actors Marguerite Churchill and George O’Brien, Orin’s journey in music began with a teenage fascination with Beethoven’s compositions. This early love blossomed into a professional career that saw her secure a coveted position with one of the world’s most renowned orchestras, under the baton of Leonard Bernstein.
The documentary takes viewers through O’Brien’s 55-year tenure with the New York Philharmonic, touching on the challenges and triumphs she experienced as a female musician in a male-dominated field. Now, as O’Brien prepares to relocate and part with her extensive collection of double basses, the film serves as both a reflection on her past and a glimpse into her ongoing legacy.
“The Only Girl in the Orchestra” adopts a personal approach, allowing O’Brien to recount her experiences in her own words. She shares memories of her parents’ divorce, the transformative power of New York City, and the deep connection she formed with her instrument. The film portrays O’Brien not as a revolutionary figure, but as a dedicated professional who found fulfillment in her craft.
While the documentary touches on O’Brien’s role in breaking gender barriers, it focuses more on her musical journey and the relationships she’s formed along the way. Now a teacher, O’Brien’s devotion to her students and her instrument shines through, revealing a humble artist who prioritized her love for music over personal fame.
“The Only Girl in the Orchestra” offers viewers a chance to appreciate the quiet determination of a woman who made history simply by pursuing her passion. It’s a thoughtful exploration of a life dedicated to music, presented without unnecessary embellishment or dramatization.
Where to Watch “The Only Girl in the Orchestra”
