James Cargill of Cargill
custom guitars was kind enough to make us two beautiful drum-triggers
(Thank You, James) which we used to trigger the two Theremin's with (pitch/pitch mode).
The moog style rotary knob allowed the selection of several algorithms i.e. one Theremin
would control volume, the other pitch. We did also experiment with pitch/pitch
style of control and auto-trigger/pitch style, where one Theremin would control the speed
with which notes where played and the other Theremin would control the pitch. The
true potential of the Midi Theremin started to become more and more apparent.
One evening when we had a few people over for drinks, I showed my latest creation to the
composer Brendan Colbert who also has
a keen interest in modern music. He managed to get me into contact with
Thomas Reiner ,
associate Professor at Monash Uni and we ended up doing a small experimental session with
Re-Sound using the Midi Theremin,
piano, violin and some other instruments ... (Thank You Thomas). The outcome of this
was very encouraging and led to further experimentation with the Midi Theremin.
Inspired by all this, one evening, I hooked up 'triple R' to the Midi Theremin
trigger-inputs and recorded several improvised takes, by changing trigger thresholds whilst
trying to control the two pitch Theremin's all at the same time, then mixed it down a little
and came up with this little piece of experimental music
Midi Theremin
improvisation by Horst (C) 2003 (a-rhythmic sound scape - an acquired taste -
but try to see the potential :)
Unfortunately, technology needed to advance a little more (and also my
bank account balance) and after some years, in 2008, the seed was planted to design
the next generation of Midi Theremin. After two years of hard work and little income,
we present to you 'The Wave Theremin' .
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