29 Greatest & Most Famous Theremin Players of All Time

The theremin, one of the earliest electronic instruments, is known for its ethereal and otherworldly sound, played without physical contact. Since its invention by Léon Theremin in 1920, this unique instrument has captivated audiences and inspired musicians across various genres.

From the classical mastery of Clara Rockmore to the experimental approaches of contemporary artists like Carolina Eyck and Lydia Kavina, theremin players have pushed the boundaries of musical expression.

This article delves into the lives and careers of some of the most famous theremin players, exploring their contributions to the instrument’s evolution and the rich diversity of music they have created.

29 Most Talented Famous Theremin Players of All Time

These artists and musicians have significantly contributed to the use and popularization of the theremin, an instrument known for its unique sound and playing technique.

Here’s a list of 29 famous theremin players:

#1 Clara Rockmore

Clara Rockmore, born on March 9, 1911, in Vilnius, Lithuania, is often regarded as the greatest theremin virtuoso of all time. A former violin prodigy, Rockmore turned to the theremin after a hand injury ended her violin career. She became a pioneer of the instrument, working closely with its inventor, Léon Theremin, to refine its design and playing techniques. Rockmore’s performances brought classical legitimacy to the theremin, showcasing its potential for lyrical and expressive music.

Her 1977 album “The Art of the Theremin,” accompanied by her sister Nadia Reisenberg on piano, remains a landmark recording, highlighting her impeccable pitch control and expressive capabilities. Rockmore’s contributions significantly elevated the theremin’s status as a serious musical instrument.

#2 Lydia Kavina

Lydia Kavina, born on September 8, 1967, in Moscow, Russia, is one of the leading contemporary theremin players. She began studying the theremin at the age of nine under the tutelage of Léon Theremin, her great-uncle. Kavina has performed internationally, bringing the theremin to a wide audience through both solo recitals and collaborations with orchestras. Her repertoire spans classical, contemporary, and experimental music.

Kavina has premiered numerous works for the theremin, including pieces by composers such as Edgard Varèse and Alfred Schnittke. She has also contributed to film scores and popular music recordings, further expanding the theremin’s presence in modern music. Kavina is also an educator, teaching the theremin at workshops and conservatories around the world.

#3 Leon Theremin

Léon Theremin, born Lev Sergeyevich Termen on August 15, 1896, in Saint Petersburg, Russia, was a physicist and inventor who created the theremin, one of the first electronic musical instruments. Theremin invented the instrument in 1920, and its unique method of playing without physical contact captivated audiences. He toured Europe and the United States, demonstrating the theremin’s capabilities and performing alongside orchestras.

In addition to the theremin, Theremin invented other electronic devices, including the “terpsitone” and “rhythmicon.” His life was marked by intrigue, including a mysterious disappearance in 1938, later revealed to be due to his abduction by Soviet agents. Despite this, his contributions to electronic music and technology have left an enduring legacy, with the theremin continuing to fascinate musicians and audiences alike.

#4 Carolina Eyck

Carolina Eyck, born on December 26, 1987, in Berlin, Germany, is a renowned theremin player and composer known for her virtuosic technique and innovative compositions. She began playing the theremin at the age of seven and quickly established herself as a leading performer.

Eyck developed her own playing technique, which she detailed in her book “The Art of Playing the Theremin.” She has performed with prestigious orchestras worldwide, including the Berlin Philharmonic and the Brussels Philharmonic, and has released several albums showcasing the theremin in classical and contemporary music settings. Eyck is also a composer, incorporating the theremin into her works and collaborating with other musicians to explore new sonic possibilities. Her contributions have helped modernize the image of the theremin and expand its repertoire.

#5 Pamelia Stickney (formerly Kurstin)

Pamelia Stickney, known professionally as Pamelia Kurstin before her marriage, is an American theremin player recognized for her innovative use of the instrument. Born on October 28, 1976, Stickney has a background in jazz, which she incorporates into her theremin performances, showcasing the instrument’s versatility.

She is known for her pioneering work with “walking bass lines” on the theremin and her use of effects pedals to create a range of sounds. Stickney has collaborated with artists across various genres, including David Byrne, Béla Fleck, and John Zorn. Her album “Thinking Out Loud,” released in 2007, highlights her unique approach to the theremin, blending improvisation with structured compositions. Stickney continues to perform and teach, contributing to the evolution of the theremin in contemporary music.

#6 Dorothy Ashby

Dorothy Ashby, born on August 6, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan, was a pioneering jazz harpist and composer who also explored the theremin in her work. While Ashby is primarily known for her groundbreaking contributions to jazz through the harp, she incorporated the theremin into her music during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Her album “The Rubáiyát of Dorothy Ashby” (1970) features her playing the koto and theremin, blending jazz, African, and Middle Eastern influences.

Ashby’s use of the theremin added a distinctive sound to her compositions, showcasing its potential in jazz and fusion genres. Though not as widely recognized for her theremin work, Ashby’s innovative spirit and exploration of new instruments contributed to her reputation as a forward-thinking and genre-defying artist.

#7 Grégoire Blanc

Grégoire Blanc is a French thereminist known for his technical proficiency and expressive performances. Blanc began studying the theremin at a young age and quickly gained recognition for his skill and musicality. He has performed internationally, showcasing the theremin in both classical and contemporary music settings. Blanc is known for his interpretations of works by composers like Rachmaninoff and Saint-Saëns, as well as for his innovative arrangements and collaborations.

In addition to performing, Blanc is active on social media, where he shares educational content about the theremin and electronic music. His work has helped popularize the theremin among new audiences and has expanded its repertoire and possibilities.

#8 Peter Theremin

Peter Theremin, born in Moscow, Russia, is a modern thereminist and the great-grandson of the instrument’s inventor, Léon Theremin. Peter has continued the family legacy by becoming an accomplished theremin player and advocate for electronic music. He is known for his performances in various genres, including classical, jazz, and contemporary music. Peter Theremin has collaborated with numerous artists and composers, bringing the theremin into modern music contexts.

He is also involved in organizing festivals and events dedicated to electronic music, such as the Thereminology Festival, which promotes the theremin and other electronic instruments. Through his work, Peter has contributed to the revival and innovation of theremin playing in the 21st century.

#9 Samuel Hoffman

Samuel Hoffman, born on July 23, 1903, in New York City, was a notable American thereminist and violinist. Hoffman began his career as a classical violinist but became famous for his theremin performances in Hollywood film scores during the 1940s and 1950s. He played the theremin in soundtracks for classic films such as “Spellbound,” “The Day the Earth Stood Still,” and “It Came from Outer Space.” Hoffman’s work on these scores helped define the eerie, otherworldly sound associated with science fiction and horror films.

He released several theremin recordings, including the album “Music Out of the Moon,” which showcased his unique style and the instrument’s capabilities. Hoffman’s contributions significantly shaped the perception of the theremin in popular culture.

#10 Rob Schwimmer

Rob Schwimmer is an American composer, pianist, and thereminist known for his versatility and innovative use of electronic instruments. Schwimmer has performed with a wide range of artists, including Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon, and The Orchestra of St. Luke’s, demonstrating his adaptability across genres. He is a co-founder of the NY Theremin Society and has been involved in various projects that highlight the theremin’s expressive potential.

Schwimmer’s solo album “Theremin Noir” features theremin interpretations of classic film noir music, showcasing his mastery of the instrument’s nuanced sound. He is also an accomplished composer, creating music for films, television, and theater. Schwimmer’s contributions have broadened the scope of the theremin in contemporary music and entertainment.

#11 Katica Illényi

Katica Illényi, born on February 17, 1968, in Budapest, Hungary, is a versatile Hungarian musician known for her work as a violinist, vocalist, and thereminist. Illényi has a classical background and has performed as a soloist with numerous orchestras. She introduced the theremin into her performances, adding a unique dimension to her musical repertoire.

Illényi’s theremin performances often feature classical and popular pieces, showcasing the instrument’s lyrical and expressive qualities. Her ability to seamlessly integrate the theremin into her concerts has made her a popular figure in the classical crossover genre. Illényi has received several awards for her contributions to music, and her performances continue to captivate audiences around the world.

#12 Randy George

Randy George is an American thereminist and electronic musician known for his technical prowess and creative use of the theremin. George has been a key figure in promoting the theremin in contemporary music, performing both solo and in collaboration with other artists. He is a founding member of the electronic music project Spaghetti Eastern Music and has performed with the band Elysian Fields.

George’s YouTube channel, “Randy George Theremin,” features a wide range of theremin performances, including covers of classical and popular music, as well as original compositions. His instructional videos and tutorials have also helped educate a new generation of theremin players. Through his performances and educational efforts, Randy George has made significant contributions to the modern theremin community, showcasing the instrument’s versatility and artistic potential.

#13 Thorwald Jørgensen

Thorwald Jørgensen, born in 1980 in the Netherlands, is a renowned thereminist known for his classical and contemporary performances. Jørgensen initially trained as a percussionist before switching to the theremin, where he found his true calling. He has performed with numerous orchestras and ensembles worldwide, showcasing the theremin in both traditional and avant-garde contexts.

Jørgensen’s repertoire includes works specifically composed for the theremin, as well as his arrangements of classical pieces. He is also involved in commissioning new works for the instrument, contributing to the expansion of its repertoire. Jørgensen has taught masterclasses and workshops, helping to educate and inspire new theremin players.

#14 Barbara Buchholz

Barbara Buchholz, born on December 8, 1959, in Duisburg, Germany, was a prominent thereminist and composer known for her experimental approach to music. She initially trained as a bassist and composer, but became captivated by the theremin and its unique expressive capabilities. Buchholz was a pioneer in incorporating the theremin into contemporary music, often blending electronic, jazz, and classical elements in her performances.

She co-founded the “Touch! Don’t Touch!” project, which explored the theremin’s potential in modern music and multimedia art. Buchholz performed internationally, collaborating with notable artists and composers. She also taught theremin workshops, sharing her innovative techniques and inspiring a new generation of musicians. Buchholz passed away in 2012, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazer in electronic music.

#15 Lorin Edwin Parker

Lorin Edwin Parker is an American thereminist, composer, and sound artist known for his experimental and multidisciplinary work. Parker’s background in engineering and sound design has influenced his approach to the theremin, often exploring its possibilities in electronic and ambient music. He has performed at numerous festivals and events, showcasing his unique style that blends theremin, synthesizers, and custom-built electronic instruments.

Parker is also involved in creating sound installations and interactive art pieces, often incorporating the theremin’s ethereal sound. His work pushes the boundaries of traditional theremin playing, exploring new sonic landscapes and expanding the instrument’s role in contemporary music and art.

#16 Masami Takeuchi

Masami Takeuchi is a Japanese thereminist and educator known for his dedication to preserving the traditional techniques and repertoire of the theremin. Takeuchi studied under Lydia Kavina, one of the leading theremin players, and has since become a respected performer and teacher.

He founded the Japanese Theremin School and has been instrumental in promoting the theremin in Japan through concerts, workshops, and media appearances. Takeuchi’s performances often include classical and traditional Japanese music, showcasing the theremin’s versatility and cultural adaptability. He has also collaborated with various artists across different genres, further broadening the instrument’s appeal. Takeuchi’s work has made a significant impact on the theremin community in Japan and beyond.

#17 Albert Glinsky

Albert Glinsky is an American composer, pianist, and author known for his contributions to electronic music and his work on the theremin. Glinsky is the author of “Theremin: Ether Music and Espionage,” a comprehensive biography of Léon Theremin that explores the history and cultural impact of the theremin.

As a composer, Glinsky has created works for orchestra, chamber ensembles, and electronic media, often incorporating the theremin into his compositions. He has performed and lectured widely, sharing his knowledge of electronic music history and the theremin’s unique role in it. Glinsky’s research and compositions have helped to elevate the theremin’s status as a serious musical instrument, contributing to its continued relevance in contemporary music.

#18 Yuri Pushkarev

Yuri Pushkarev is a Russian thereminist and musician known for his classical and experimental performances. Pushkarev has been active in the theremin community for many years, performing both as a solo artist and in collaboration with orchestras and ensembles.

His repertoire includes classical works, contemporary compositions, and his own original pieces, showcasing the theremin’s expressive range. Pushkarev is also a teacher and advocate for the theremin, participating in festivals and events that promote electronic music. His contributions have helped to maintain the theremin’s presence in Russian music culture and to inspire new generations of musicians.

#19 Béla Bartók

Béla Bartók, born on March 25, 1881, in Nagyszentmiklós, Austria-Hungary (now Sânnicolau Mare, Romania), was a renowned Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist. While not a thereminist himself, Bartók is associated with the use of the theremin in classical music due to his influence on electronic music composers.

Bartók’s exploration of folk music and incorporation of unconventional sounds in his compositions paved the way for the inclusion of electronic instruments like the theremin in modern classical music. His work has inspired many composers to experiment with electronic sounds, including the theremin, thus indirectly contributing to its development and use in orchestral settings.

#20 Jean-Michel Jarre

Jean-Michel Jarre, born on August 24, 1948, in Lyon, France, is a pioneering electronic music composer and performer known for his large-scale concerts and innovative use of synthesizers. Although primarily associated with synthesizers and other electronic instruments, Jarre has incorporated the theremin into his music, exploring its unique sound in his compositions. His album “Oxygène” is a landmark in electronic music, showcasing his ability to blend traditional and electronic sounds.

Jarre’s use of the theremin, along with other electronic instruments, has helped popularize electronic music and introduced new audiences to the theremin’s distinctive timbre. His work continues to influence musicians and composers in the electronic music genre.

#21 Jon Bernhardt

Jon Bernhardt is an American thereminist and radio host known for his contributions to experimental and indie music scenes. He began playing the theremin in the 1990s and became a notable figure in the Boston music community. Bernhardt is a member of the band The Lothars, an ensemble known for its unconventional compositions and performances featuring multiple theremins. The band’s music often blends elements of avant-garde, experimental, and ambient genres.

In addition to performing, Bernhardt is also a long-time host of the radio show “Breakfast of Champions” on WMBR, where he promotes indie and experimental music. His work has helped raise awareness of the theremin and its potential in modern music.

#22 Shueh-li Ong

Shueh-li Ong is a Singaporean-born Australian thereminist, composer, and multi-instrumentalist known for her innovative fusion of electronic and traditional music. She began her music career as a pianist and synthesist before discovering the theremin. Ong’s music often blends electronic, classical, and pop elements, creating a unique soundscape that highlights her versatility.

She has released several albums under the name “Shueh-li,” showcasing her skills on the theremin, synthesizers, and other instruments. Ong is also known for her engaging live performances, where she incorporates dance and multimedia elements. Her work has been featured in international festivals and media, making her a prominent figure in the electronic music scene.

#23 Matthias Menz

Matthias Menz is a German thereminist and electronic musician known for his work in contemporary and experimental music. Menz has been active in the theremin community since the early 2000s, performing both as a solo artist and in collaboration with other musicians and composers.

He is known for his technical proficiency and innovative use of the theremin in various musical contexts. Menz often explores the theremin’s capabilities in electronic and ambient music, creating atmospheric soundscapes that highlight the instrument’s unique qualities. He has performed at numerous festivals and events, promoting the theremin as a versatile and expressive instrument. Menz’s work has helped to expand the theremin’s presence in contemporary music.

#24 Armen Ra

Armen Ra is an Iranian-American thereminist known for his emotive and expressive performances. Ra began his career as a cabaret performer before discovering the theremin, which he has since made his primary instrument. His music often blends elements of classical, opera, and Middle Eastern music, creating a haunting and evocative sound. Ra has released several albums, including “Plays the Theremin,” showcasing his unique approach to the instrument.

He has performed internationally and collaborated with various artists, bringing the theremin to new audiences. Ra is also a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community and has been featured in documentaries and media for his work as an artist and activist. His contributions have made him a respected and influential figure in the world of theremin music.

#25 Andrey Smirnov

Andrey Smirnov is a Russian thereminist, composer, and historian known for his work in electronic and experimental music. Smirnov has been involved in the theremin community for decades, performing, researching, and teaching the instrument. He is the author of “Sound in Z,” a comprehensive history of early Russian electronic music, including the development of the theremin. Smirnov’s performances often explore the intersection of music, technology, and art, incorporating multimedia elements and electronic soundscapes.

He has collaborated with numerous artists and composers, pushing the boundaries of traditional theremin playing. Smirnov is also a professor at the Moscow State Conservatory and has been instrumental in promoting electronic music education in Russia. His work has significantly contributed to the preservation and advancement of electronic music and the theremin.

#26 Olivier Messiaen

Olivier Messiaen, born on December 10, 1908, in Avignon, France, was a renowned French composer, organist, and ornithologist. Although Messiaen did not play the theremin himself, he is associated with the instrument due to his innovative use of electronic sounds in his compositions. Messiaen’s work often explored themes of mysticism, nature, and color, and he was a pioneer in incorporating electronic instruments into classical music.

His piece “Fête des belles eaux,” composed for six ondes Martenot, another early electronic instrument, influenced the use of electronic instruments like the theremin in orchestral settings. Messiaen’s work has inspired many composers to explore electronic sounds, including the theremin, in their music. His legacy continues to influence contemporary music and the integration of electronic instruments in classical compositions.

#27 David Gilden

David Gilden was an American thereminist and electronic musician known for his innovative work in the 1970s and 1980s. Gilden’s performances often featured the theremin in conjunction with synthesizers and other electronic instruments, creating experimental soundscapes that explored the boundaries of electronic music. He was known for his unique approach to the theremin, using it to produce unconventional sounds and textures.

Gilden’s work was part of the early electronic music movement, and he performed at various festivals and events dedicated to experimental music. Although not widely known, Gilden’s contributions to the theremin and electronic music have influenced many contemporary musicians and composers.

#28 Keiko Kimura

Keiko Kimura is a Japanese thereminist and composer known for her classical and contemporary performances. Kimura has been a prominent figure in the theremin community in Japan, performing both solo and with orchestras. Her repertoire includes classical pieces, modern compositions, and her own original works, showcasing the theremin’s expressive potential. Kimura has been involved in promoting the theremin in Japan through concerts, workshops, and media appearances.

She has collaborated with various artists and composers, bringing the theremin into diverse musical contexts. Kimura’s work has helped to popularize the theremin in Japan and has inspired many new players to explore the instrument.

#29 Yoko Ono

Yoko Ono, born on February 18, 1933, in Tokyo, Japan, is a renowned avant-garde artist, musician, and peace activist known for her experimental work and use of unconventional instruments. While not a thereminist herself, Ono has incorporated theremin sounds in her performances and recordings, often in collaboration with thereminists and electronic musicians. Her avant-garde approach to music and art has included the use of the theremin to create atmospheric and experimental soundscapes.

Ono’s work has influenced the use of electronic instruments in contemporary art and music, and she has been a prominent figure in promoting avant-garde and experimental practices. Her contributions to music and art have made her a significant figure in the world of experimental and electronic music.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is considered the greatest theremin virtuoso and what is her contribution to the instrument?

Clara Rockmore is widely regarded as the greatest theremin virtuoso, known for her impeccable technique and expressive performances. She worked closely with the instrument’s inventor, Léon Theremin, to refine its design and playing techniques, significantly elevating the theremin’s status as a serious musical instrument.

How has Lydia Kavina contributed to the modern use of the theremin?

Lydia Kavina, a student of Léon Theremin, is a leading contemporary thereminist who has premiered numerous works and collaborated with orchestras worldwide. She has expanded the theremin’s repertoire and has been instrumental in teaching and promoting the instrument to new generations.

What role did Samuel Hoffman play in popularizing the theremin in film music?

Samuel Hoffman was a key figure in popularizing the theremin in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s, providing its eerie sound for scores in classic films like “Spellbound” and “The Day the Earth Stood Still.” His work helped establish the theremin’s association with science fiction and horror genres.

How does Carolina Eyck stand out in the contemporary theremin community?

Carolina Eyck is known for her virtuosic technique and innovative compositions for the theremin, as well as for her book “The Art of Playing the Theremin,” which details her unique playing method. She has performed internationally with prestigious orchestras, bringing the theremin into classical and contemporary music spheres.