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2,259,196 views | Pamelia Kurstin • TED2002

The untouchable music of the theremin

Virtuoso Pamelia Kurstin performs and discusses her theremin, the not-just-for-sci-fi electronic instrument that is played without being touched. Songs include "Autumn Leaves," "Lush Life" and David Mash’s "Listen, Words Are Gone."

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This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

Virtuoso Pamelia Kurstin performs and discusses her theremin, the not-just-for-sci-fi electronic instrument that is played without being touched. Songs include "Autumn Leaves," "Lush Life" and David Mash’s "Listen, Words Are Gone."

This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

About the speaker

Pamelia Kurstin

Theremin player

See speaker profile

Pamelia Kurstin excavates a dusty artifact from the prehistoric strata of electronic music -- and demonstrates how to squeeze soul from an instrument you can't even touch.

MGM, 1993 | Watch

Theremin: An Electronic Odyssey

If I hadn't seen this documentary, I wouldn't have been inspired to try the theremin! It includes interviews with Leon Theremin and Clara Rockmore, as well as footage of her playing.

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Thanks to Steven Martin for introducing me to Dr. Dalit Warshaw, a composer, thereminist and pianist who continues to inspire and encourage me!