Ondes Martenot and Theremin ‒ “humanized voices” of alternating current

Abstract

The article is based on a comparative analysis of the history of creation, technical characteristics and formation of interest from performers of two electronic instruments – theremin and Martenot waves. Similar history of the emergence of these instruments, entrenched in performing practice, allows us to compare their characteristics and modifications and trace their penetration into performing practice. The final conclusion from the article is that the interest in the instrument of Martenot waves from composers was due, on the one hand, to the development in the context of new technologies of electronic instruments, as well as to the bright timbre, dynamic and intonation nuances laid down in it by its inventor. The presence of a keyboard made this instrument a part of traditional performing practice and this favorably distinguished it from its contemporary – theremin.