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Understanding the Theremin's Mechanics

Understanding the Theremin's Mechanics

Assessment

Interactive Video

Physics, Arts, Performing Arts

7th - 12th Grade

Practice Problem

Hard

Created by

Emma Peterson

FREE Resource

The theremin is an electronic musical instrument invented in 1919 by Russian physicist Leon Theremin. It is unique because it is played without physical contact. The instrument consists of a box with two metal antennas that create an electromagnetic field. The musician controls pitch and volume by moving their hands near the antennas, which alters the capacitance of the field. The right hand controls pitch, while the left hand controls volume. Playing the theremin requires significant practice, especially for pitch control, as there are no physical guides like keys or fingerboards. Skilled players can produce complex and expressive performances.

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9 questions

Show all answers

1.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

Who invented the Theremin?

Nikola Tesla

Albert Einstein

Leon Theremin

Thomas Edison

2.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What is unique about playing the Theremin?

It is played underwater

It is played with a bow

It is played without being touched

It is played with feet

3.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What are the main components of the Theremin?

Strings and a bow

Keys and pedals

A box with two metal antennas

Drum and sticks

4.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What does the upright antenna control?

Pitch

Tempo

Tone

Volume

5.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

How does the pitch change when the right hand moves away from the upright antenna?

The pitch gets higher

The pitch stays the same

The pitch gets lower

The pitch becomes distorted

6.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What does the loop antenna control?

Pitch

Tempo

Tone

Volume

7.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

How does the volume change when the left hand approaches the loop antenna?

The volume gets louder

The volume gets softer

The volume stays the same

The volume becomes distorted

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