AETHERPHON, global theremin family

Quoting Lunette Records <lunetterecords@...>:

> Kevin - you will not be disappointed by the Takeuchi CD I can assure you.
> I had the great fortune to do two shows with him last year in London
> (complete with the 17 piece Mable orchestra of Matryiomin players - baby
> theremins in the shape of Russian dolls!) - it was an awesome experience.
> http://www.mandarinelectron.com/theremin/english/matryomin/index.html
>
I remember reading about the show and watching the link of the Mable
orchestra.  I imagine that the video doesn't do the sound justice --
the ensemble probably sounds rich in person.
>
>   I was also gifted to have a short impromptu lesson in his hotel room (in
> front of the girls from the Mable orchestra - no pressure then!).  He plays
> a Moog Series 91, which is, I think, a difficult instrument to play but he
> has such intuition, grace and skill!
>
What a great experience!  As a result of the lesson are you doing
anythings differently than before?  How is he as an instructor?  My
guess is that he would be polite and demanding.  I would jump at an
opportunity for a lesson or master class with Masami.
>
> I think for classical music, he is the
> best there is - anywhere.  the classical music in the show sent a shiver
> down my spine.
>
When hearing him play, one forgets the "novelty" of the theremin and
hears beautiful music.
>
> The
> Japanese are studious and dedicated to their art - no mucking around!  The
> theremin is taken very seriously there. I really hope to have the
> opportunity to go to Japan soon to play with them again.
>
Do you think the theremin has moved into the Japanese mainstream  
consciousness or is it still regarded as a novelty?

Incidentally, I find in the USA that most folks (outside of electronic  
music circles) have not heard of the theremin -- therefore it is  
neither mainstream or novelty.  When people hear the theremin played  
beautifully (classical or otherwise) I believe it makes friends for  
the instrument.  I would like to think that there is more to it than  
just the novel "played without touching" thing -- that the music  
itself and the theremin's unique expressiveness has appeal.
>
> PS - He is interested in selling the Matryiomin in other territories...the
> only problem is, it is very expensive for what people will be willing to pay
> in West - he cited $250 US as dealer price...
>
Yep, kinda pricey for me for a pitch-only instrument.

However, my lil' red pitch-only theremin is on the way!  :)

-- Kevin