Giant Theremin to Stay in Melbourne for Easter

Giant Theremin to Stay in Melbourne for Easter

The world's first Giant Theremin, a super-sized musical instrument controlled by movement, will stay in its Northbank home for a little while longer.

Launched during last year's Melbourne Music Week, the Giant Theremin was scheduled to leave its Melbourne shores in February... but the unique musical instrument has been loved by so many passers by that the City of Melbourne has decided to keep it for the Easter school holidays.

Councillor Jennifer Kanis, Chair of the Future Melbourne (People and Creative City) Portfolio said the Giant Theremin is a unique and active way to bring people together through music.

"The Giant Theremin has been a wonderful addition to Melbourne's cultural landscape, and we are happy it will be staying with us for the holidays. Passers by have commented on fantastic interactions with the instrument and it has allowed people to connect with the city through music.

"The Theremin allows people to create great music in a public space, by themselves and with their friends and colleagues, while also engaging in physical activity. We are happy to extend the Theremin's time in Melbourne so more families can come down to Northbank and explore during the holidays," Councillor Kanis said.

The Giant Theremin is an initiative of the City of Melbourne and supported by VicHealth. It is one of seven projects that are part of VicHealth's MOTION program which is about improving people's health by giving them opportunities to get creative, active and involved in their local community through the arts.

"The reaction to the Giant Theremin has been fantastic! It was always going to be a hit because it has all the right ingredients: it's unique, anyone can participate and it's good fun," said VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter.

"We've seen so many different people getting their bodies moving and playing the Theremin, including cyclists, office workers, a zombie party and a morning Tai Chi group. The biggest Theremin in the world is a truly unique experience, but it's only here for a little longer, so make sure you get down to Northbank and give it a go," Ms Rechter added.

The Giant Theremin is located in the Les Erdi Plaza in the City of Melbourne's Northbank until April15.