Kraftwerk Co-Founder's Historic Instruments Go to US Auction
As a trailblazer of electronic music whose band the pioneering act redefined mainstream melodies and impacting artists including Bowie, New Order, Coldplay, and Run-DMC.
Presently, the electronic equipment along with devices utilized by the musician to create Kraftwerk's iconic tracks in the 1970s and 1980s could fetch a high six-figure sum when they are sold at auction next month.
Rare Glimpse of Late Solo Project
Compositions for a solo project he had been creating prior to his passing due to cancer in his seventies in 2020 can be heard as a debut through a clip related to the event.
Extensive Collection of Personal Belongings
In addition to his suitcase synthesiser, his flute plus voice modulators – which he used for robotic vocal effects – enthusiasts have the opportunity to acquire around five hundred his personal effects in the sale.
Among them are his set exceeding 100 brass and woodwind instruments, many instant photos, his sunglasses, his travel document used on tour until 1978 and his VW panel van, painted in a gray hue.
His Panasonic Panaracer bicycle, which he rode during the band's video and is depicted on the single’s artwork, will be auctioned later this month.
Auction Details
The approximate sum from the event falls between $450K and $650K.
The group was revolutionary – they were one of the first bands with electronic gear and they created music entirely new to listeners.
Additional artists considered their music incredible. They suddenly discovered this new pathway within sound pioneered by the band. It inspired numerous artists to move in the direction of using synthesised electronic music.
Featured Lots
- A vocoder probably employed by the band in productions from the late '70s and Computer World in 1981 is expected to sell $30,000 to $50,000.
- A suitcase synthesizer believed to be utilized on Kraftwerk’s 1974 album Autobahn is appraised for a mid-range sum.
- The alto flute, a specific model that Schneider used during live acts before moving on, is valued at $8,000 to $10,000.
Distinctive Objects
In the affordable range, a collection of about 90 Polaroid photographs he captured of his woodwind and brass instruments is on sale for a modest sum.
Other quirky objects, like a clear, vibrant yellow instrument and a “very unique” insect replica, placed on Schneider’s studio wall, may go for $200 to $400.
The musician's green-tinted shades plus snapshots featuring the glasses are estimated at under $500.
Official Message
He felt that they are meant to be played and shared – not sitting idle or collecting dust. His desire was his equipment to go to individuals that will cherish them: performers, hobbyists and admirers by the art of sound.
Ongoing Legacy
Recalling Kraftwerk’s influence, an influential artist said: “From the early days, they inspired us. Autobahn was an album which prompted us take notice: what is this?. They created innovative work … fresh sounds – they were consciously rejecting earlier approaches.”