back to list

Electric theremin-organ

🔗jms1895 <Lpine@ia.net>

6/21/2002 2:28:59 PM

I am writing to ask if anyone knows the location of a one-of-a-
kind electronic musical instrument. It was known as an "ELECTRIC
THEREMIN-ORGAN," which was an electronic organ with microtuning.

The instrument was designed by Joseph Schillinger, built by Leon
Theremin (the inventor of the "theremin") and financed by Gerald
Warburg in 1932. The instrument had the following specifications:

1. 75 keys
2. 75 tuning dials
3. The tuning dials permited each key to tune within the range of
1/3 of a tone of the 12 step equal temperament.
4. Electrical power output of 9 watts.
5. Vibrato by intensity with speed control.
6. Sound intensity controlled by a pedal.
7. Timbre control by a pedal.
8. Special keyboard.
9. A loudspeaker was enclosed within the organ facing the right side.
10. Range from 256 - 1024.

The instrument looked like an organ, and was built to test
Schillinger's system of tuning called "Double Equal Temperament." It
was last seen 30 years ago.

If the organ was donated to an institution or archive, it was given
by Mrs. Gerald Warburg.

If you have any information concerning this instrument or know of
someone who might have, please contact me at Lpine@ia.net

Thank you.
L. Pine