How to Play the Theremin

In 1919, a Russian physicist named Lev Termen (who changed his last name to Theremin) created an instrument that creates music without being touched. The original intent of the instrument was to replace an entire orchestra with its "music from the ether". Even if Lev Theremin's goal was not realized, the instrument's popularity experienced a renewal in the 1990s. It is even used today by some bands like 12 Cents for Marvin, Aerosmith, Alice Cooper and more. Read this article to learn how to play a Theremin.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Make a Theremin. Plans and kits are available online at such sites as Theremin World.

2. Buy a Theremin. These are also available online. Go to Tom Farrell's site for information on where to buy your Theremin. You may also find used Theremins on eBay.

3. Look for teachers of Theremins. These may be listed in the phone book or such sites as Theremin World.

4. Purchase a "Learn To Play The Theremin Package" through Lark of the Morning or other such websites.

Tips & Warnings

• The Theremin is a challenging instrument to play as there are no keys. Having perfect pitch helps, or as Clara Rockmore, one of the first performers of the Theremin, stated in an interview: the "first fundamentals of music should be learned on the piano".

Resources

• Theremin World provides lots of information about Theramins.
• Tom Farrell's site is a valuable resource on where to buy a Theremin.