Electronic Music Pioneer's Historic Instruments Head to American Sale
As a innovator of electronic music whose band the pioneering act revolutionized mainstream melodies while inspiring performers ranging from Bowie to Run-DMC.
Now, the musical tools along with devices utilized by the musician to create Kraftwerk's iconic tracks in the 1970s and 1980s are estimated to earn substantial bids during the upcoming sale this coming month.
Exclusive Preview for Late Solo Project
Music related to his own venture that Schneider was working on shortly before his death after a cancer diagnosis aged 73 two years ago can be heard as a debut through a clip promoting the sale.
Extensive Collection of Personal Belongings
In addition to his suitcase synthesiser, his wind instrument and robotic voice devices – utilized by him for robotic vocal effects – enthusiasts can try to purchase around five hundred of Schneider’s personal possessions through bidding.
This encompasses his collection exceeding 100 brass and woodwind instruments, several snapshots, eyewear, his travel document for his travels through the late '70s plus his custom van, which he custom-painted grey.
The bike he rode, featured for the Tour de France clip also pictured in the release's graphics, will also go under the hammer later this month.
Auction Details
The total estimated value from the event falls between $450K and $650K.
The group was revolutionary – they were one of the first bands with electronic gear producing sounds unlike anything prior.
Fellow musicians considered their music astonishing. They came across a fresh route for compositions that Kraftwerk created. This motivated a lot of bands to explore electronic synth sounds.
Featured Lots
- A vocoder that is likely employed by the band on their albums during their peak and early '80s work may go for $30,000 to $50,000.
- A suitcase synthesizer likely utilized on Kraftwerk’s 1974 album their iconic release is appraised for a mid-range sum.
- The flute, an Orsi G alto featured in performances alongside electronic gear until 1974, is valued at $8,000 to $10,000.
Quirky and Personal Items
For smaller budgets, a collection with dozens of snapshots Schneider took featuring his wind collection is on sale for a modest sum.
More unusual pieces, like a clear, vibrant yellow instrument and a “very unique” insect replica, which was mounted in his workspace, may go for $200 to $400.
His framed eyewear with green lenses plus snapshots showing him with these could sell for under $500.
Estate’s Statement
He felt that gear deserves activity and enjoyed by others – not stored away or collecting dust. He wanted his tools to be passed to people who would truly value them: performers, hobbyists and those inspired by the art of sound.
Ongoing Legacy
Recalling the band's impact, one noted musician stated: Initially, we loved Kraftwerk. That record that had us pay attention: this is new. They produced something different … entirely original – they were consciously rejecting earlier approaches.”