The First Electronic Musical Instrument

Invented by a Russian physicist named Lev Termen (his name was later changed to Leon Theremin) in 1919, the theremin is the world’s first electronic musical instrument. 

Eyeing a potential new market, RCA built 500 of then in 1929—but the instrument proved very difficult to play and was discontinued.  Today only a handful remain.  

Besides looking like no other instrument, the theremin is unique in that it is played without being touched. Two antennae protrude from the theremin - one controlling pitch, and the other controlling volume. As a hand approaches the vertical antenna, the pitch gets higher. Approaching the horizontal antenna makes the volume softer.

Because there is no physical contact with the instrument, playing the theremin requires precise skill and perfect pitch.

For more information on theremins, see http://www.thereminworld.com