Trailblazing N.Y. Philharmonic bassist says she’s nothing special. Her niece — and the Oscars — disagree

Molly O’Brien vividly remembers the first time she stepped into her aunt Orin’s New York City apartment at the young age of 11. The space was filled with stacks of records and books, beautiful artwork and sculpture adorning the walls, and the enticing smell of something delicious cooking in the kitchen. But what captivated Molly the most were the series of exquisite double-basses from Italy and England lining the walls, sparking her imagination with images of handsome, broad-shouldered European men.

Describing her aunt Orin’s apartment as a “cultural bouillon cube,” Molly was instantly drawn to the world her aunt inhabited. She admired Orin’s career as a member of the esteemed New York Philharmonic orchestra and aspired to follow in her footsteps. This admiration served as the inspiration for Molly’s latest documentary, “The Only Girl The Orchestra,” which delves into Orin O’Brien’s remarkable journey in the music industry.

The documentary, now streaming on Netflix, has garnered critical acclaim and has been nominated for Best Documentary Short Film at the Academy Awards. Despite her aunt’s initial hesitance to be the subject of the film, Molly persisted for 10 years before finally convincing Orin to share her story on camera.

Orin, now 89 years old, humbly attributes the success of the documentary to Molly’s dedication and hard work. A true team player, Orin has always preferred to let her music speak for itself, shying away from the spotlight and the trappings of fame. She has always viewed her role in the orchestra as a part of something bigger, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and unity in creating beautiful music.

Throughout her illustrious career in the New York Philharmonic, Orin faced challenges as the only woman in a male-dominated industry. Despite her undeniable talent and experience, she often felt overlooked and underestimated, with media coverage focusing more on her gender than her musical prowess. However, Orin remained steadfast in her dedication to her craft, drawing strength from her mentors, teachers, and fellow musicians.

In the documentary, Orin modestly downplays her own achievements, insisting that she is not an artist but rather an artisan. She views her work as a continuous process of learning and improvement, passing on her knowledge and passion to future generations of musicians. For Orin, being a musician is not just a profession but a calling, a deeply ingrained part of her identity.

As “The Only Girl The Orchestra” sheds light on Orin O’Brien’s remarkable career and contributions to the world of classical music, it also serves as a testament to the power of mentorship, dedication, and the enduring legacy of women in the arts. Through the lens of family lineage and shared experiences, Molly O’Brien’s documentary resonates with audiences who can relate to the influence of a beloved aunt or mentor in their own lives.