For decades, the New York Philharmonic, the oldest symphony orchestra in the United States, was an all-male bastion. Often described as the first woman to become a permanent member of the Philharmonic, O’Brien was part of a pioneering group of female artists who opened doors for other women. O’Brien, who retired from the Philharmonic in 2021 after a 55-year career, has resisted speaking publicly about her life in music, preferring to stay in the background. But a new documentary short, “The Only Girl in the Orchestra,” directed by her niece, the filmmaker Molly O’Brien, looks at her struggles and achievements. (The film premiered last week at DOC NYC, a festival that celebrates documentary film.)

---

Persons: Orin O’Brien, O’Brien, ”, Molly O’Brien Organizations: New York Philharmonic, Philharmonic, Orchestra Locations: United States