So there’s this cool electronic instrument that’s been around since 1919. Not new, but hardly heard of. It’s called a Theremin, named after its inventor, Léon Theremin, and it was the first musical instrument designed to be played without actually being touched. There is an electromagnetic field generated from two different antennas which is manipulated to play the instrument. The vertical antenna is usually on the right side and uses the right hand to control the pitch. The left hand controls the volume with the horizontal antenna on the left. Pretty basic concept, but incredibly difficult to master.

The theremin, I perceive, is slowly growing in popularity with modern composers, since it not only has a very unique sound, but is also quite flexible. Microtones are possible since you can play the entire spectrum including all the subtle nuances between standard musical notes.

You can read more about the theremin, find out about movies and bands who have used the theremin, and find more links in the Wikipedia article on the theremin. Here are a couple of video clips of some EXCELLENT theremin playing.

Lydia Kavina is known as one of the world’s experts and has helped develop and standardize hand movements, resulting in greater virtuosity.

Carolina Eyck is another contemporary thereminist who is performing today. The next two videos are of her, first on a tv show and then with a string quartet and Heinz Holliger on oboe. Quite amazing!



This last one is just a neat electronic jam session of sorts. You just have to see and listen. It’s pretty cool and a nice way to incorporate the theremin into modern popular music.
By the way, if you want to learn more about theremins or even explore buying one and learning to play it, visit Theremin World. Prices start in the low $300s.