SAEDNEWS: The theremin is an extraordinary and astonishing electronic instrument that can be played without any physical contact or touch. In this article, Saed News takes you on a complete journey to get to know the theremin.
The theremin (Russian: Терменвокс, English: Theremin) is an electronic musical instrument invented in 1919 by the Russian physicist Leon Theremin. Today, this unique instrument has captured the attention of artists worldwide.
Unlike any other instrument, the theremin is not only visually distinct but also played in a way that is completely unique: without physical contact. Its sound is generated by two oscillators that interact to create vibrations. One oscillator operates at a frequency above the range of human hearing, while the frequency of the second oscillator changes as the musician’s hand enters its electromagnetic field. The difference between the two oscillators’ frequencies produces the audible tone.
When the theremin is powered on, it generates an electromagnetic field around itself. As the musician’s hands move within this field, both pitch and volume are affected. Two antennas extend from the theremin’s body: one vertical, controlling pitch, and one horizontal, controlling volume. Moving the hand closer to the vertical antenna raises the pitch, while moving it closer to the horizontal antenna lowers the volume. Because there is no physical contact between the instrument and the player, performing on the theremin demands exceptional skill and a finely tuned ear.
The theremin operates on the principle of heterodyning—combining two alternating currents to produce a third frequency equal to the sum or difference of the originals—to generate an audio signal.
It consists of two radio-frequency oscillators, each connected to an antenna: a vertical rod for controlling pitch and a horizontal loop for volume control. When the device is activated, it establishes an electromagnetic field. Hand movements within this field are detected by proximity sensors, which modulate the frequency and amplitude of the sound. High notes are played by bringing the hand closer to the horizontal antenna, while louder notes result from moving the hand away from the vertical antenna.
The theremin’s internal circuitry includes one oscillator operating at a fixed wavelength and another oscillator whose wavelength varies with hand distance from the antenna, allowing the musician to produce a range of pitches.
Despite its challenging playing technique, the theremin has been used both as a solo instrument and in orchestral settings. Famous musicians and bands such as Jean-Michel Jarre, Radiohead, Led Zeppelin, and Portishead have incorporated the theremin into their work.
The instrument also made its mark in film music, featuring in Alfred Hitchcock’s Spellbound (score by Miklós Rózsa) and The Day the Earth Stood Still (score by Bernard Herrmann). In the 1950s, its eerie, otherworldly sound became synonymous with horror movies, and it remains a tool for film composers today. The recent revival by contemporary bands has renewed interest in the instrument.
Lydia Kavina, the last direct student of Leon Theremin, is now recognized as one of the world’s leading classical theremin performers.
Performing on the theremin involves interacting with an invisible electromagnetic field. The player controls pitch and volume through precise hand movements, adjusting the wavelength and intensity of the sound. Mastery requires careful attention to subtle changes, as no keys or guides exist—musicians rely entirely on their auditory skills.
The theremin is also known as the etherophone, thereminophone, and terminovox, though “theremin” is the most widely used. Early performers experimented with various hand techniques, some inspired by string instruments like the violin.
Playing “invisible strings”: Musicians imagine invisible strings between their hands and the antennas, producing notes along these imagined lines.
Relying on auditory skill: Without keys or visual cues, performers must depend entirely on their sense of hearing for precise pitch control.
Invented in 1919 by Russian physicist Leon Theremin, the theremin is a groundbreaking electronic instrument played without touch. Its early development was supported by state-funded research on proximity sensors. Today, the theremin continues to fascinate musicians and audiences alike with its ethereal, expressive sound.
