tags: mus-407 early-electroacoustic-instruments

Theremin

The theremin is an electronic instrument invented in 1922 with the unique ability to be played without touch

• US tour, patented 1927-28
• highly accessible, no piano keyboard
• RCA acquired license to sell theremins and DIY theremin kits ca. 1930s
• later Moog theremins ca. 1950s
• Commercially available, relatively popular today

Operating principles

• two antennae control [amplitude] and [frequency]
• exploits the [Heterodyne principle]

In popular culture

• The Day the Earth Stood Still
  • dir. Robert Wise, 1951
• Good Vibrations
  • The Beach Boys
• Clara Rockmore, theremin virtuoso (1911-1998)

Sources

• MUS 407 History of Electroacoustic Music: Early Instruments