The word "thermin" is often misspelled, which may be due to its uncommon usage. The correct spelling is actually "theremin" (/ˈθɛrəmɪn/). The first syllable is pronounced with a voiced "th" sound as in "this", while the second syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound as in "in". The word refers to an electronic musical instrument that is played without any physical contact by the musician. It was invented by Léon Theremin in the early 20th century and is still used in modern music today.
Theremin refers to an electronic musical instrument that belongs to the family of musical instruments known as the "air-phonics." It was invented by Russian physicist Léon Theremin, also known as Lev Termen, in the early 20th century. The theremin is one of the earliest electronic instruments and pioneering examples of gesture-based control in music.
The instrument consists of two main parts: a control section and a pitch section. The control section usually contains vertical antennas that detect hand movements, while the pitch section consists of a horizontal antenna that senses the distance between the performer's hand and the instrument. The theremin produces sound by manipulating electromagnetic fields created by the performer's hand movements around these antennas, without the need for direct physical contact.
By moving their hands through the electromagnetic fields, the performer can control both pitch and volume simultaneously, resulting in a unique and ethereal sound characteristic of the theremin. Depending on the placement and proximity of the hands, the instrument generates different pitches and dynamics. The performer can vary the sound by consciously manipulating the distance and speed of their hand movements.
The theremin has been used in various musical genres, including classical, experimental, and electronic music. Its distinctive sound has been featured in numerous film scores and has captured the interest of musicians, composers, and enthusiasts around the world. The instrument continues to fascinate and intrigue due to its uncommon playing technique and its vital role in the development of electronic music.
Tetrahydrobetanaphthylamine hydrochloride, C10H11NH2.HC1; a reddish white crystalline powder, soluble in water; employed as a mydriatic in 1 to 5 per cent. solution, and is said to increase the body temperature.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "theremin" is derived from the name of its inventor, Russian physicist Lev Sergeyevich Termen (also known as Léon Theremin). He developed the instrument in 1919 while working on proximity sensors for the Soviet government. Originally, the instrument was called the "aetherphone" or "etherphone", but it was later changed to "theremin" in honor of its creator.