{"id":10422,"date":"2024-01-15T14:59:00","date_gmt":"2024-01-15T19:59:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/splice.com\/blog\/?p=10422"},"modified":"2025-01-15T15:00:01","modified_gmt":"2025-01-15T20:00:01","slug":"how-theremin-works","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/splice.com\/blog\/how-theremin-works\/","title":{"rendered":"How does the theremin work? The instrument you never touch"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

You may have heard the theremin in the eerie soundscapes of old-timey horror movies, or in the performances of virtuoso thereminists like Clara Rockmore.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Among the earliest electronic instruments, the theremin was a standout in how it could be played without any physical contact. In this article, we break down what a theremin is, how it works by harnessing the power of electromagnetic interference, and how you can explore its distinctive sound firsthand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let’s dive in!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What is a theremin?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The theremin is an instrument that typically consists of a wooden box with two antennae; one controls pitch, and the other controls amplitude (loudness). Skilled performers can play melodies by hovering and moving their hands ever so slightly around the instrument.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The theremin’s sound<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Theremins have a distinctive timbre that sounds something like a cross between a violin and a soprano voice. Due to the way it’s played, the theremin has a gliding, portamento quality that can be simultaneously haunting and beautiful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take a listen to Carolina Eyck’s performance below to get a taste of its unique sonic characteristics:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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