Question about starting to practice

Posted: 11/15/2009 10:40:12 PM
JimSn

From: New England

Joined: 11/15/2009

Hi, I'm a beginner and own a B3. I've watched a few videos on how to start playing the theremin, but none of them has told me what I want to know: that is, how to practice?

What I'm getting at is that I'm a seasoned musician--I've played sax and all the woodwind and brass instruments for many, many years. Whenever I start a new instrument, I get a fingering chart and start learning from a method book: single notes at first, then scales and simple studies and melodies. I have yet to find a "theremin method" book or guide similar to this style of teaching/learning.

My gut tells me to start learning the theremin by trying to play scales. But since no one seems to teach that way, I fear I may be wasting my time.

What do you all think? I really want to learn to play well and am willing to put in the time and work. But I want to do it right! Can I approach learning the theremin the same way I've learned my wind instruments? Or do I need to do it a different way? And what way is that? Thanks for your help.
Posted: 11/16/2009 12:09:01 AM
btl

Joined: 11/14/2009

wish i could teel ya. im wondering the samething. ill watch your thread to hopefully find an answer too..gl
Posted: 11/16/2009 10:23:31 AM
kkissinger

From: Kansas City, Mo.

Joined: 8/23/2005

JimSn,

To practice scales is valuable -- you can find elsewhere on this site a link to some exercises written by Clara Rockmore.

Check out the "Spellbound" podcasts. When you hear a thereminist that plays with the style and repertoire in which you'd like to play, then find out what technique that performer uses.

All the best!

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