The Only Girl in the Orchestra
2023 • 35 min • Documentary · Music
Synopsis
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.
Our family guide
Best from age 7- 100 Reviewers · 1 · 51%
- 66 Audience · 66 · 49%
An intimate documentary about Orin O'Brien, the first woman hired by the New York Philharmonic. Now retired, Orin reflects on her pioneering career, her love of music, and her enduring connections with family and students, all while shying away from the spotlight.
- Violence & peril
- 0/10
- Language
- 0/10
- Drinking, drugs & smoking
- 0/10
- Romance & sensuality
- 0/10
- Scary moments
- 0/10
Heads up
- None to note
What it models well
- Perseverance and dedication
- Breaking barriers
- Passion for music
- Mentorship and community
Talk about it after
- The history of women in professional orchestras
- The life of a professional musician
- Why Orin preferred a supporting role
- The importance of following your passion
Written by the Movie Knight editorial team for The Only Girl in the Orchestra. Our own words, our own scoring — always double-check against your family's standards.
Where to watch
Netflix
Netflix Standard with AdsLinks go straight to each service. Some are affiliate links that support Movie Knight at no cost to you. Availability data by JustWatch via TMDB.
Top billed cast
Director: Molly O'Brien
Trailers & clips
'The Only Girl in the Orchestra' Wins Best Documentary Short Film | 97th Oscars Speech (2025)
Official Teaser
Official Trailer
Reviewer notes
RecommendedTrusted family reviewersBorn of Hollywood Silver Screen stock - George O'Brien and Marguerite Churchill, Orin O'Brien studies ballet as a child before taking up the double bass and trailblazing for her sex to become the first woman to play for the New York Philharmonic Orchestra.…
Fan reviews
Sign in to rate and reviewBe the first fan to review this.
Gallery
Details
- TMDB audience
- 6.6/10 (66)
- Age rating
- G
- Status
- Released
- IMDb
- tt29497240
- Official site
- www.onlygirlintheorchestra.com
