Theremin Artists and Performers

A directory of notable theremin players, past and present.

From Clara Rockmore to the modern masters of the ether.

The theremin has attracted a diverse and talented group of performers over the years. From the classical virtuosity of Clara Rockmore to the experimental explorations of modern players, theremin artists have pushed the boundaries of what this remarkable instrument can do.

This page is a directory of notable theremin players, past and present. Some are well-known figures who have made significant contributions to the instrument's history. Others are contemporary artists who are shaping its future.

We encourage you to explore their work and discover the incredible range of music that can be created with the theremin.

Clara Rockmore
1911 — 1998

The undisputed master of the theremin. Clara Rockmore was a child violin prodigy who turned to the theremin and became its greatest virtuoso. Her recordings of classical repertoire remain the gold standard.

Learn more
Leon Theremin
1896 — 1993

The inventor of the theremin. Theremin was a brilliant physicist and musician who demonstrated his instrument to Lenin and toured the world. He also performed on his invention.

Read history
Lydia Kavina
Born 1967

A leading theremin performer and a great-niece of Leon Theremin. Lydia Kavina has performed worldwide and has been a key figure in the theremin revival since the 1990s.

Official site
Carolina Eyck
Born 1987

A German theremin player known for her expressive technique and innovative approach. Carolina Eyck has developed a unique playing system and performs both classical and contemporary repertoire.

Official site
Dorit Chrysler
Born 1968

An Austrian-American theremin player, singer, and composer. Dorit Chrysler is a co-founder of the New York Theremin Society and has performed with many notable musicians and ensembles.

Official site
Peter Pringle
Born 1945

A Canadian musician and theremin player. Peter Pringle has performed on CBC and other networks, and has been a longtime member and supporter of the theremin community.

Official site
Miss Hypnotique
Active since 1990s

A theremin performer known for her theatrical and mesmerizing style. Miss Hypnotique has been a fixture of the theremin scene for decades, bringing the instrument to audiences in new and creative ways.

Official site
Eri Ti
Born 1970

A Japanese theremin performer who has been active since the 1990s. Eri Ti is known for her expressive playing and has performed throughout Asia and beyond.

Official site
Samuel Hoffman
1903 — 1967

The theremin player behind many classic Hollywood film scores. Samuel Hoffman played on "The Day the Earth Stood Still," "The Lost Weekend," and countless other iconic soundtracks.

Paul Tanner
1917 — 2013

A trombonist who invented the Electro-Theremin, a theremin-like instrument. Paul Tanner was a member of the Glenn Miller Orchestra and later used his instrument on many recordings.

Electro-Theremin page
Lucy Bigelow Rosen
1890 — 1968

A student of Leon Theremin and a patron of the arts. Lucy Bigelow Rosen was a devoted theremin player and a close friend of Clara Rockmore. She hosted many theremin events at her estate.

George McDonald
Active since 1990s

A theremin builder and performer known for his "Hot Rod Theremin" designs. George McDonald combines a passion for electronics and music in his work.

Hot Rod Theremin

This list is a work in progress. If you would like to suggest an artist to be added, please contact us.