The theremin makes that extraordinary wailing sound on The Beach Boys Good Vibrations. It is a very early synthsiser, invented in 1919.
The show blurb promised a history; what we actually got was brief notes.
This was a free event but ticketed. However, the organisers let in far too many. Over half the audience were stood outside the room and without a mike it was difficult to hear what the two performers inside were saying.
The performance lasted 20 minutes in total; the Fringe programme had said two hours.
The first two pieces were Eno-esque landscapes, reminiscent of the 50's sci-fi Day the Earth Stood Still atmospheres most people are familiar with. But this instrument is capable of a lot lot more. Check out Clara Rockmore's incredible classical interpretations.
The third and final piece was Donna Summer's disco classic I Feel Love. The shortcomings of Leila Dear and Sarah Angliss's technical abilities then became clear.
To end, the audience were invited to try out the theremin for themselves. Only a few took up the opportunity.
Most Fringe artists would dream of attracting a crowd of 75 people at three o'clock in the afternoon. To present them with this shambles was an insult. One positive: Angel House (the venue) is well worth a visit.
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