The theremin is a musical instrument that you don’t actually touch to play. Its pitch and volume are guided by your hands as they move through the air between two antennas. It was invented in 1919 by a Russian scientist named Lev SergeyvichTermen, known as LeonTheremin here in the States. Montreal writer, Sean Michaels, found inspiration in the theremin and its creator for his debut novel, Us Conductors. It’s a book brimming with unrequited love, international espionage, and enduring hope.
Sean Michaels will be talking about his book in Baltimoretomorrow night at 7 at Atomic Books in Hampden. That presentation will include a thereminist, Robby Neubauer, playing a few tunes. Tom Hall spoke with Sean Michaels yesterday.