Name of Instrument:
Theremin, also called thereminvox and aetherophone
Type:
Electronic, based on the principles of beat frequency
Inventor:
Leon Sergeivitch Termen, a cellist and electronic engineer
Year Invented:
A prototype was created in 1917. A later model was introduced to the public in 1920 at the Moscow Industrial Fair. The patent was granted to Leon Sergeivitch Termen in 1928. Composers such as Henry Cowell composed music specifically for this instrument
Description:
In its early form, the volume was controlled by a foot pedal. Later on the volume was changed by moving the hands near a metal loop. The theremin succeeded in attracting attention; in the 1930s RCA distributed it in the US. It was even used in several movie soundtracks and included in songs during the 1960s. One example is the song "Good Vibrations" by the Beach Boys. Later models include the keyboard theremin, terpistone, rhythmicon and the theremin cello
More Information:
Compare Prices on the video documentary: Theremin: An Electronic Odyssey