Kraftwerk Co-Founder's Legendary Instruments Are Featured in US Auction
He was innovator within synth-based sounds with the group Kraftwerk revolutionized the sound of pop and influenced musicians ranging from Bowie to Run-DMC.
Currently, his synth gear along with devices utilized by the musician for producing some of the band’s best-known songs in the 1970s and 1980s are estimated to earn a high six-figure sum when they are sold in a November auction.
Exclusive Preview of Late Solo Project
Compositions for a solo project he had been creating shortly before his death after a cancer diagnosis at 73 years old two years ago is being shared for the first time via footage promoting the sale.
Wide Array of Personal Belongings
Alongside his suitcase synthesiser, the wooden flute and robotic voice devices – utilized by him for robotic vocal effects – enthusiasts can try to acquire approximately 500 of Schneider’s personal possessions at the auction.
This encompasses the assortment exceeding 100 musical wind tools, many instant photos, his shades, the passport he used while touring until 1978 plus his custom van, which he custom-painted grey.
His Panasonic Panaracer bicycle, used by him for the Tour de France clip also pictured on the cover art, is also for sale on 19 November.
Bidding Particulars
The approximate sum of the sale falls between $450K and $650K.
They were innovators – among the earliest acts that used synthesisers producing sounds entirely new to listeners.
Additional artists considered their music astonishing. It revealed a fresh route in music developed by the group. This motivated many acts to explore synthesizer-based tunes.
Featured Lots
- An effects unit that is likely the one Kraftwerk used in productions The Man Machine in 1978 and Computer World in 1981 may go for a high estimate.
- A suitcase synthesizer thought to be utilized for Autobahn their iconic release is appraised for $15,000 to $20,000.
- His wind instrument, a specific model that Schneider used on stage with the synthesiser before moving on, may sell for $8,000 to $10,000.
Unique Belongings
Among the lowest-priced items, an assortment of nearly 100 instant photos he captured showing his musical tools is on sale for $100 to $200.
More unusual pieces, including a transparent, bright yellow acrylic guitar and a “very unique” 16-inch model of a fly, displayed in his workspace, are priced at $200–$400.
The musician's eyewear with green lenses plus snapshots featuring the glasses are listed at under $500.
Official Message
He always believed that gear deserves activity and circulated – not left unused or collecting dust. He hoped his equipment to be passed to people that will cherish them: musicians, collectors and admirers through music.
Ongoing Legacy
Reflecting on Kraftwerk’s influence, a well-known drummer said: Initially, we were fans. That record that had us sit up and say: this is new. They produced something different … entirely original – they were consciously rejecting the past.”
