The Only Girl in the Orchestra

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.

Main 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)