He was innovator in the electronic genre and his ensemble the German electronic band transformed the sound of pop and influenced artists including Bowie, New Order, Coldplay, and Run-DMC.
Presently, his synth gear along with devices utilized by the musician in crafting Kraftwerk's iconic tracks throughout two decades may bring in hundreds of thousands of dollars when they are sold in a November auction.
First Listen for Final Solo Project
Compositions for a solo project that Schneider was working on just before he died after a cancer diagnosis at 73 years old two years ago is being shared for the first time through a clip promoting the sale.
Vast Assortment of Personal Belongings
Together with his portable synth, his flute and his vocoders – which he used for robotic vocal effects – collectors have the opportunity to acquire nearly 500 of Schneider’s personal possessions in the sale.
These include his collection of more than 100 musical wind tools, numerous Polaroid photographs, eyewear, his travel document used on tour before 1979 plus his custom van, which he custom-painted grey.
The bike he rode, used by him for the Tour de France clip also pictured in the release's graphics, will be auctioned later this month.
Bidding Particulars
The approximate sum from the event is $450,000 to $650,000.
Kraftwerk were groundbreaking – they were one of the first bands that used synthesisers and they created music that no one had ever heard of before.
Other bands found their tracks astonishing. They came across this new pathway in music that Kraftwerk created. This motivated a lot of bands to explore of using synthesised electronic music.
Featured Lots
- One voice modulator probably utilized on albums in productions during their peak and Computer World in 1981 is expected to sell a high estimate.
- The portable EMS model believed to be employed on Kraftwerk’s 1974 album the famous record is valued at a mid-range sum.
- The alto flute, a specific model featured in performances alongside electronic gear before moving on, may sell for up to five figures.
Unique Belongings
For smaller budgets, an assortment with dozens of snapshots he captured featuring his wind collection is on sale for a modest sum.
More unusual pieces, such as a see-through, colorful bass plus a distinctive fly sculpture, displayed in his workspace, have estimates of $200 to $400.
The musician's green-tinted shades along with instant photos showing him with these are estimated at under $500.
Official Message
He always believed that instruments should be used and shared – not left unused or remaining untouched. His desire was his instruments to go to individuals who appreciate them: artists, gatherers and fans through music.
Enduring Impact
Recalling their contribution, an influential artist said: “From the early days, we loved Kraftwerk. That record that had us sit up and say: what is this?. They created unique material … entirely original – they were consciously rejecting the past.”
