Matryomin
is the unique, original electronic musical instrument invented by Masami
Takeuchi in 1999. It is an adaption of the Theremin – an unusual electro-musical
instrument invented in Russia. It has been shaped into the form of a Russian
traditional wooden doll, Matrioshka.
It
fits the form of Matrioshka perfectly performing five octaves in range. The
distance of one octave at Low-Middle range is equal to Etherwave Theremin of
Moog Music Inc. If you have acquired the basic techniques of playing the Theremin
on the Etherwave Theremin, you can enjoy playing Matryomin the same way. Matryomin
is only pitch controlled Theremin on market.
Mandarin
Electron, a company directed by Masami Takeuchi, started manufacturing
Matryomin on a commercial basis in 2003. Now, Matryomin is going on 2nd
generation model. Their website is http://www.mandarinelectron.com
The
matryomin ensemble "Mable" is a
ensemble made up of matrioshka shaped Theremin players. All members are expert
Thereminists who have studied under Masami Takeuchi. Mable has performed on
many TV programs, radio shows and concerts in Japan, England, Germany and
Russia. They have released their first CD Shokou (morgenrote) in Japan. It is a mixture
of classic tracks and more popular music such as a Beach Boys compilation.
As
it is only available in Japan you can email masami@theremin.jp
to arrange to purchase the CD.
This review will appear in Volume 2 No.3
(2009) of the digital and print edition of Synergy Magazine.
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