This pioneer in the electronic genre with the group Kraftwerk transformed popular music and influenced musicians including Bowie, New Order, Coldplay, and Run-DMC.
Now, the electronic equipment along with devices that Florian Schneider used in crafting some of the band’s best-known songs during the '70s and '80s are estimated to earn a high six-figure sum when they are sold at auction next month.
Exclusive Preview for Late Individual Composition
Music related to his own venture the artist was developing shortly before his death after a cancer diagnosis aged 73 back in 2020 is available for the first time in a video promoting the sale.
Vast Assortment of His Items
Together with his portable synth, his flute and his vocoders – utilized by him to make his voice sound like a robot – collectors will get a chance to acquire approximately 500 of Schneider’s personal possessions in the sale.
These include the assortment exceeding 100 wind and brass items, many instant photos, his sunglasses, his travel document he used while touring until 1978 and his VW panel van, given a gray finish.
His Panasonic Panaracer bicycle, used by him in Kraftwerk’s Tour de France music video and shown on the single’s artwork, will also go under the hammer this November 19.
Sale Information
The approximate sum for the auction ranges from $450,000 to $650,000.
They were innovators – they were one of the first bands employing synthesizers producing sounds entirely new to listeners.
Fellow musicians viewed their songs incredible. They suddenly discovered an innovative direction in music pioneered by the band. It inspired many acts to move in the direction synthesizer-based tunes.
Highlighted Items
- An effects unit that is likely employed by the band for recordings during their peak plus later releases is expected to sell a high estimate.
- A suitcase synthesizer likely the one used for Autobahn Autobahn is valued at $15,000 to $20,000.
- The alto flute, a specific model featured in performances on stage with the synthesiser through the early '70s, is valued at $8,000 to $10,000.
Distinctive Objects
Among the lowest-priced items, a group of about 90 Polaroid photographs photographed by him of his woodwind and brass instruments is available at a low estimate.
Other quirky objects, like a clear, bright yellow acrylic guitar and a “very unique” insect replica, displayed at his studio, are priced at $200 to $400.
The musician's green-lens sunglasses plus snapshots of him wearing them are listed at under $500.
Estate’s Statement
His view was that they are meant to be played and shared – not left unused or collecting dust. He wanted his equipment to find their way to people who appreciate them: artists, gatherers and those inspired through music.
Ongoing Legacy
Recalling Kraftwerk’s influence, a well-known drummer commented: Initially, we were fans. That record which prompted us sit up and say: what is this?. They produced innovative work … fresh sounds – they intentionally avoided the past.”
