Bronx Cheers

Abstract

Abstract The theme of Chapter 2 is the convergence of Bob’s two talents: music and technology. The hobbyist and ham radio culture of the 1940s is influential, and Bob discovers a Radio and Television News article showing how to build your own theremin, an electronic musical instrument invented by Leon Theremin. He knows little about the history of the instrument or its inventor, and is unaware of Clara Rockmore, the reigning diva of the theremin. But he builds the theremin, a project that will define the rest of his life. He attends the elite Bronx High School of Science. His aunt, Florence Moog, a scientist and university professor, is introduced in this chapter; she will remain one of his biggest lifelong influences, encouraging his scientific and intellectual development. Socially ostracized at Bronx Science, Bob finds acceptance at the Free Synagogue of Flushing. He applies to the Ivy Leagues despite their known discrimination against Jews.