This is the final lesson the “The Complete Theremin” course, and hopefully, a real challenge for everyone. Let’s go out on an Xtreme note. The melodic and rhythmic sequences in this tutorial require speed, accuracy and persistence. And they just might be things you already know but have never attempted to play. Have fun! [...]
In continuing to work with the precision fan, this lesson introduces two short, briskly paced melodic sequences. The first is a sequence that is primarily a melodic descent, while the second is a melodic ascension. They’re both designed to test your ability to simultaneously hit precise pitches and synchronize them with rhythm. In addition, since [...]
In Part 4, pitch is added back into the mix exclusive of rhythm. In an evolution of Lesson 45, the challenge is to see if hitting pitches in a scale is possible in one unbroken movement of the pitch hand, while the volume hand articulates each one. This is the precursor to playing challenging and/or [...]
Transition out of the “hand fan” to the more challenging “precision fan.” In preparation for incorporating melody, we’ll continue to disregard pitch and take on complex and rapid rhythms; You’ll build endurance and accuracy as you work at the threshold.
First, be sure to work with Part 1 of this series; that is where you learn the basics of the “hand fan,” and you’ll need to be proficient with it when tackling this lesson. We’ll experiment with rhythms that get progressively more rapid and complex. Be sure to record yourself when working on this and [...]
In the first of this four-part sequence of lessons, we’ll review every volume hand technique and begin working toward techniques that help with greater relaxation while playing, cleaner articulation, and the ability to play more rapidly. The new “transitional” technique shown here lays the groundwork for what’s to come, so, make sure to record yourself [...]
We usually think of the pitch hand primarily as the source of muscle memory, intuiting the actual location of any given pitch as well as the guide for intonation – the ability to stay on pitch. However, using a very simple hand movement, the hand can also aid in articulation. Try it out.
Practicing the “upstroke” against a surface above your volume hand as you’ve been doing was a great way to build coordination, endurance and create the sense memory of a physical reference point. Now, you’ll take this movement over the volume loop to work on isolated and complex rhythmic patterns.
The theremin’s portamento, i.e., “slide,” is often given a bad rap. But under close examination, it’s revealed as a wonderful means of self-expression.
As thereminists, we tend to think of the volume loop as the place where expression is lent to the pitches and music we produce; some of us even refer to the volume loop as the “expression loop.” It’s true – note articulation, the dynamics of loud and soft (crescendo, diminuendo, pianissimo, etc.) all happen using [...]