Rhythmicon
Rhythmicon
- Description
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This rhythmicon was made by Leon Theremin in New York, New York, about 1931. This instrument is the earliest electronic rhythm machine. It produces various drumbeats or rhythms using a unique mechanism of light sources and rotating perforated-wheels. A keyboard is used to produce a repeated single rhythmic note. Multiple keys produce overtone series of notes. Amplification with a loudspeaker produces the audible rhythmic output.
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The instrument was used by Joseph Schillinger in his 1940-41 recordings. Joseph Moiseyevich Schillinger (1895-1943) was a composer, music theorist, and composition teacher, known for the Schillinger System of Musical Composition.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Object Name
- rhythmicon
- date made
- ca 1931
- place made
- United States: New York, New York
- Physical Description
- wood (overall material)
- metal (overall material)
- plastic (overall material)
- Measurements
- overall: 38 1/8 in x 19 1/4 in x 24 1/2 in; 96.8375 cm x 48.895 cm x 62.23 cm
- ID Number
- MI.66.502
- catalog number
- 66.502
- accession number
- 265671
- Credit Line
- Gift of Mrs. Joseph Schillinger
- See more items in
- Culture and the Arts: Musical Instruments
- Music & Musical Instruments
- Electronic Musical Instruments
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
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