Theremin
- Hornbostel-Sachs
- 533
- Family
- Electronic
- Origin
- Russia
About
The theremin is the world's first widely known electronic instrument, invented by Russian physicist Léon Theremin in 1920. It is played without physical contact — the performer moves their hands near two antennae: a vertical rod controlling pitch and a horizontal loop controlling volume. The eerie, continuous tone resembles a singing voice.
Famous Examples
1These are specific, historically notable physical instruments — each with its own story, provenance, and place in musical history.
Léon Theremin's Original RCA Theremin
1929Maker
RCA (Radio Corporation of America) · American
Current Owner
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Location
Washington D.C., USA
Estimated Value
Priceless
Notable Players
Why It Matters
One of the original RCA production theremins — the first commercially manufactured electronic instrument. The theremin is unique: it is played without physical contact, the performer moving their hands near two antennae to control pitch and volume. Invented by Russian physicist Léon Theremin in 1920 and demonstrated to Lenin; the RCA model of 1929 brought it to a mass audience.
Description
A wooden cabinet housing the oscillator circuits, with a vertical rod antenna controlling pitch and a horizontal loop controlling volume. The eerie, voice-like tone influenced science fiction film scores and avant-garde music.