I began playing the theremin almost thirteen years ago. Before I "discovered" it, I had no idea that theremins actually existed in abundance. I can't remember a time when I didn't know what a theremin was, probably because when I was growing up I may have seen thereminists Samuel Hoffman and Paula Maria on shows like "You Asked for It." One day I found a tiny ad in a catlog that promoted a theremin kit. I bought it and then faced the challenge of being someone who'd never tackled an electronics project before. But I built it... and it worked! From that time on, the intial enthusiasm and passion for the instrument has stayed with me, undiminished. It's because of the theremin that I've had so many amazing experiences and met incredible people from concert halls, to museums, to the depths of the New York City subway system.
The theremin itself is still a very young instrument. Less than one hundred years old, it was (and remains) the creator of the quintessential futuristic sound in countless Sci-Fi movies. It occupies a legendary place in the history of rock music. It's safe to say that there are now more theremin players in the world than ever before. Still, it remains virtually unknown to most people. I'm constantly asked if I invented it! Following their initial amazement at the sight of a theremin, people are often surprised at how expressive the instrument can be.
I hope our paths will cross someday so we can share in the music.
