Florian Schneider's Historic Equipment Head to US Auction
As a pioneer within synth-based sounds with the group the pioneering act redefined mainstream melodies while inspiring artists including Bowie, New Order, Coldplay, and Run-DMC.
Now, the musical tools and performance items that Florian Schneider used in crafting the group's famous compositions in the 1970s and 1980s may bring in a high six-figure sum when they are sold in a November auction.
Exclusive Preview into Late Individual Composition
Music from an independent endeavor the artist was developing just before he died due to cancer at 73 years old two years ago is being shared initially via footage related to the event.
Vast Assortment of Personal Belongings
Alongside his portable synth, his wind instrument and his vocoders – which he used creating mechanical-sounding vocals – enthusiasts can try to purchase nearly 500 items from his estate through bidding.
This encompasses his set exceeding 100 wind and brass items, numerous Polaroid photographs, his sunglasses, his travel document used on tour before 1979 and his VW panel van, which he custom-painted grey.
His cycling gear, used by him during the band's video and shown on the cover art, is also for sale this November 19.
Bidding Particulars
The total estimated value for the auction falls between $450K and $650K.
They were innovators – they were one of the first bands that used synthesisers and they created music entirely new to listeners.
Other bands considered their music incredible. It revealed a fresh route for compositions that Kraftwerk created. This motivated numerous artists to move in the direction of using synthesised electronic music.
Highlighted Items
- One voice modulator that is likely employed by the band in productions The Man Machine in 1978 plus later releases is expected to sell $30K–$50K.
- The portable EMS model likely the one used on Kraftwerk’s 1974 album Autobahn is valued at $15,000 to $20,000.
- The flute, a specific model played by him during live acts through the early '70s, is valued at $8,000 to $10,000.
Quirky and Personal Items
Among the lowest-priced items, a group of nearly 100 instant photos Schneider took featuring his wind collection can be bought at a low estimate.
Other quirky objects, like a clear, bright yellow acrylic guitar and a “very unique” fly sculpture, displayed in his workspace, have estimates of $200–$400.
The musician's green-lens sunglasses and Polaroid photographs featuring the glasses could sell for under $500.
Official Message
His view was that gear deserves activity and enjoyed by others – not left unused or collecting dust. He hoped his instruments to find their way to individuals who appreciate them: performers, hobbyists and fans by audio creativity.
Ongoing Legacy
Reflecting on Kraftwerk’s influence, one noted musician stated: Starting out, they inspired us. That record that had us pay attention: what is this?. They were doing innovative work … fresh sounds – they deliberately moved past earlier approaches.”