🔗 Share this article

He was innovator within synth-based sounds and his ensemble Kraftwerk transformed mainstream melodies and influenced artists including Bowie, New Order, Coldplay, and Run-DMC.

Now, his synth gear and musical instruments utilized by the musician for producing the group's famous compositions in the 1970s and 1980s may bring in substantial bids during the upcoming sale in a November auction.

Rare Glimpse into Final Solo Project

Music from an independent endeavor the artist was developing shortly before his death after a cancer diagnosis at 73 years old in 2020 can be heard for the first time in a video promoting the sale.

Extensive Collection from His Possessions

In addition to the compact synthesizer, his flute and his vocoders – which he used to make his voice sound like a robot – fans will get a chance to acquire around five hundred items from his estate in the sale.

This encompasses the assortment of more than 100 wind and brass items, several snapshots, his shades, the ID used on tour through the late '70s and his VW panel van, given a gray finish.

His Panasonic Panaracer bicycle, used by him during the band's video and shown on the cover art, will be auctioned on 19 November.

Bidding Particulars

The projected worth from the event is $450,000 to $650,000.

They were innovators – as pioneers employing synthesizers producing sounds that no one had ever heard of before.

Additional artists considered their music incredible. They suddenly discovered an innovative direction for compositions that Kraftwerk created. It inspired many acts to shift towards of using synthesised electronic music.

Highlighted Items

• A vocoder possibly utilized on albums on their albums The Man Machine in 1978 and early '80s work could fetch a high estimate.
• A suitcase synthesizer believed to be the one used for Autobahn their iconic release is appraised for a mid-range sum.
• The flute, a specific model that Schneider used alongside electronic gear through the early '70s, is valued at $8,000 to $10,000.

Unique Belongings

Among the lowest-priced items, a group of about 90 Polaroid photographs he captured featuring his wind collection is on sale for $100 to $200.

More unusual pieces, like a clear, bright yellow acrylic guitar and an unusual fly sculpture, displayed at his studio, are priced at $200 to $400.

Schneider’s gold-framed green-tinted shades along with instant photos of him wearing them are listed at $300–$500.

Estate’s Statement

He felt that instruments should be used and circulated – not sitting idle or gathering dust in storage. His desire was his instruments to go to people that will cherish them: artists, gatherers and fans through music.

Ongoing Legacy

Considering Kraftwerk’s influence, one noted musician commented: Initially, we loved Kraftwerk. That record which prompted us sit up and say: what is this?. They produced something different … entirely original – they deliberately moved past the past.”