Theremin World

This page contains several frequently asked questions about theremins. If you have something you'd like to add to the FAQ, please e-mail submit[REMOVE]@thereminworld.com

Q: When was the theremin invented?
A: The theremin was invented around 1919-1920 by Lev Sergeyvich Termin (a.k.a. Leon Theremin).

Q: How do you pronounce "theremin"?
A: There-uh-min (the "th" is pronounced as in "throw")

Q: What do the antennas do?
A: One antenna controls volume, and the other controls pitch.

Q: Why is the volume antenna shaped like a loop?
A: The loop shape creates more surface area and provides a faster volume response.

Q: Which theremin should I buy?
A: The Moog Etherwave Standard is... well the standard.
But there are several others available. The Theremin Gallery page at ThereminWorld.com lists most of the known models.
Various factors in choosing are covered in the Guide to Buying a Theremin.
For the Moog Standard, a microphone stand is also recommended to hold the theremin in open space.

Q: Will I need an amplifier?
A: Yes unless there is a built in speaker.
Most theremins have a single monophonic output at line level, the same as an electronic keyboard, and require an amplifier to produce any sound or to play with headphones.

Q: How do you tune the theremin?
A: The theremin is tuned by distance from the antennas.
The volume and pitch adjustments change the size, or distance, of the playing fields.
Volume:
The volume adjustment changes the size of the over all volume field.
It is not a gain adjustment, rather, the result is noticeable in the speed or sharpness of the attack of a note. One way to tune it is to hold you hand at the highest point you will use while playing and adjust the volume control so it's sounding it's loudest.
Pitch:
This tends to be a personal choice. Most all players though tune the pitch field with their pitch hand held tight to the shoulder and set either zero beat, or their preferred lowest note at this position. This gives the player consistency in the spacing of the notes.

Q: What is Zero Beat?
A: The pitch field has a gap in it where no sound is produced.
To find it turn the pitch knob all the way counter clockwise and stand with your pitch had at your shoulder. This should produce a high note.
Turn the volume knob clockwise, you should hear the pitch lower and then finally hit
a space of silence: that is Zero Beat.
The field actually extends behind you as well and leaning back may sound the lowest note again.

Q: How do you play the theremin?
A: A bunch of starting points are listed on the TW Learn to Play page.
Many more thoughts, tips and tricks can be found in the Theremin Technique Forum and by using the Search.
The User Manual for the Moog Standard contains a good section on the basics of how to play the thermein.

Q: What is aerial fingering?
A: Aerial fingering is the classic precision playing technique invented by the great Clara Rockmore.
It has been extended and modified by many later thereminists. Not all players use aerial fingering. Many have developed their own individual technique. There is a Theremin Technique forum in ThereminWorld.com dedicated to technique which contains an extensive and detailed discussion of various ways to play the theremin.

Q: What is pitch Linearity?
A: This refers to the consistency of the spacing of the notes across the entire pitch field.

Q: Is that a theremin on the Beach Boys' "Good Vibrations"?
A: Actually, no. The Beach Boys wanted a theremin-like sound, but they actually used a theremin-like instrument known as the "Tannerin" (named after its inventor). David Miller has done some excellent research into this common theremin myth. You can read all about the Tannerin at David's excellent website or at Tom Polk's site.

Q: Was that a Theremin that Jimmy Page used in the Led Zeppelin concert movie "The Song Remains the Same"? (forget which song - Whole Lotta Love, maybe?)?
A: Yes. I don't know what model this was, and I believe it only has a pitch antenna. Please send us e-mail if you know more about this theremin.

Q: What are some other examples of well-known tunes including the Theremin?
A: You can hear a theremin in several Sci-Fi movies from the 50s & 60s. The Day The Earth Stood Still and It Came From Outer Space are good examples. The bands page is another great place to find bands who use theremins.

Q: Where can I find the serial number on an RCA theremin?
A: For some reason, not all RCA theremins have the serial number inside. See the 9th photo down in the Chuck Collins RCA Theremin Photo Gallery for a picture of where to find the serial number.