The Theremin is an electronic instrument invented in 1919 by Leon Theremin and mastered by Clara Rockmore and is played by the likes of electronic guru Jean Michel Jarre, Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page and musical comedian Bill Bailey.
Film buffs will know the sound of the Theremin from movies such as The Day the Earth Stood Still (Hear the original studio recording session!), Spellbound and The Thing.
Recent films scores of note include Ed Wood and The Machinist, both of which feature virtuoso Thereminist Lydia Kavina who is just one of the many experts coming to Scarborough. (more) (video - Hands Off 2011 ) (Theremin's spy history)
I built my first theremin in the early 60's (engineered by Robert Moog) and today use a real Moog made model. This is a very difficult instrument to master. I'm still trying. The folks you see at Hands Off 2011 are incredibly talented.
Leon Theremin plays...
