Electronic Music Pioneer's Historic Gear Are Featured in American Sale
He was innovator within synth-based sounds whose band Kraftwerk revolutionized the sound of pop while inspiring musicians including Bowie, New Order, Coldplay, and Run-DMC.
Currently, his synth gear along with devices that Florian Schneider used for producing some of the band’s best-known songs in the 1970s and 1980s may bring in a high six-figure sum as they go under the hammer at auction next month.
Exclusive Preview into Unreleased Individual Composition
Recordings for a solo project the artist was developing shortly before his death due to cancer aged 73 in 2020 is available for the first time via footage promoting the sale.
Vast Assortment from His Possessions
In addition to the compact synthesizer, the wooden flute and robotic voice devices – utilized by him creating mechanical-sounding vocals – collectors can try to buy nearly 500 of Schneider’s personal possessions through bidding.
These include his collection exceeding 100 brass and woodwind instruments, numerous Polaroid photographs, his sunglasses, the passport used on tour until 1978 and his VW panel van, which he custom-painted grey.
His Panasonic Panaracer bicycle, featured during the band's video and shown in the release's graphics, will also go under the hammer this November 19.
Auction Details
The approximate sum of the sale ranges from $450,000 to $650,000.
Kraftwerk were groundbreaking – among the earliest acts with electronic gear crafting compositions unlike anything prior.
Additional artists found their tracks incredible. They came across this new pathway for compositions developed by the group. It inspired many acts to explore of using synthesised electronic music.
Featured Lots
- An effects unit probably employed by the band for recordings during their peak and early '80s work could fetch $30K–$50K.
- A suitcase synthesizer thought to be utilized on Kraftwerk’s 1974 album their iconic release is appraised for $15K–$20K.
- His wind instrument, a classic design that Schneider used during live acts until 1974, may sell for $8K–$10K.
Distinctive Objects
In the affordable range, a collection of nearly 100 instant photos he captured showing his musical tools is available for a modest sum.
Other quirky objects, such as a see-through, colorful bass plus a distinctive insect replica, which was mounted on Schneider’s studio wall, have estimates of $200 to $400.
His framed green-lens sunglasses along with instant photos showing him with these could sell for $300 to $500.
Official Message
He always believed that instruments should be used and circulated – not sitting idle or remaining untouched. His desire was his tools to be passed to enthusiasts who appreciate them: artists, gatherers and fans through music.
Lasting Influence
Reflecting on the band's impact, a well-known drummer stated: Initially, we were fans. Autobahn was an album which prompted us take notice: what is this?. They were doing unique material … something completely new – they intentionally avoided previous styles.”
