EXPERIMENTAL THEREMIN
workshop | production | performance
November 2-16 + Performance Dec 10
7 sessions: 23 hours + Public Performance
Cost: $250 + materials $170
Instructors: Rob Symmers, David Leith, Kate Rissiek
The Theremin
Invented in the 1920’s, it is one of the earliest electronic music instruments. To this day, it remains profoundly unique; in it’s inimitably eerie sound and its uncanny physical presence—as an instrument played gesturally without actually being touched. Whilst it is antique, it still holds a place in our future imaginary.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5qf9O6c20o
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3i2oW5PwAOQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JYF7cwW_cE
The Workshop
Participants will build their own Theremins to take home, experiment with the instrument’s potential, explore its use in controlling other devices, and participate in an Experimental Theremin Orchestra with a public presentation at VIVO.
We are going to work with PAiA Theremax kits <http://www.paia.com/theremax.asp> that have a wide range of controls (Pitch, Volume, Velocity) and Gate/Trigger outputs for use with other gear and external filters and processors. A rather complex instrument, it takes a long time to build, but then you've got yourself a Real Theremin! The participants will also build their own theremin enclosures. The PAiA Theremax kits will be provided in the workshop, for the cost of $170 (including taxes and shipping).
Examples of the PAiA Theremax use:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N152NNvVK3w - with synthesizer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPjew1S9qkw&NR=1 - with MIDI interface
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ag9alU2MfKA - with laptop & Pd
Who Can Participate
Anyone can participate. Whether you are a musician or a sound artist, experienced or just a beginner, or have no experience with sound at all but want to explore – you are welcome!
Schedule
Wed November 2, 6-9 pm
Workshop Orientation + Theremin building
Sat November 5, 1-5 pm
Theremin building / Planning the enclosure
Mon November 7, 6-9 pm
Theremin building / Troubleshooting / Debugging
Wed November 9, 6-9 pm
Installing / Embellishing the Theremin in the enclosure
Sat November 12, 1-5 pm
Experimentation
Mon November 14, 6-9 pm
Interfacing the Theremin with audio/visual equipment
Wed November 16, 6-9 pm
Orchestral rehearsal for the show
Sat December 10, 9pm
Public Performance at VIVO
HOW TO REGISTER
To register for the workshop, please email education@vivomediaarts.com with “Theremin: Registration” in the subject line. We need your full name, your phone number, your email, and your commitment to attending all or most workshop sessions.
Your registration will be confirmed upon your payment. Workshops fee: $250 + HST, Materials: $170. You have an option to pay for the materials after the workshop.
Number of participants is limited to 10.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: October 5, 2011