Clara Rockmore was, up until her death in 1998, the foremost theremin virtuosa living at that time.  She was introduced to the theremin by its inventior, Leon Theremin (Russian: Lev Sergeyevich Termen).  As a violinst, she recognised the great potential of the instrument.  Setting the violin aside, she created an entire technique and approach to the instrument that was wholly unique.  She showed that it was truly possible for it to be something other than a sound effect machine for Hollywood.  By performing the classical repertoire upon it, she showed what was truly possible with this magical instrument.