Florian Schneider's Legendary Equipment Are Featured in American Sale
As a trailblazer within synth-based sounds with the group the pioneering act transformed the sound of pop and influenced performers including Bowie, New Order, Coldplay, and Run-DMC.
Presently, the electronic equipment and musical instruments that Florian Schneider used to create the group's famous compositions during the '70s and '80s may bring in a high six-figure sum when they are sold at auction next month.
Rare Glimpse into Late Individual Composition
Recordings for a solo project he had been creating shortly before his death after a cancer diagnosis aged 73 in 2020 is being shared initially through a clip about the auction.
Vast Assortment of Personal Belongings
In addition to his suitcase synthesiser, his wind instrument and robotic voice devices – which he used to make his voice sound like a robot – fans can try to acquire approximately 500 of Schneider’s personal possessions at the auction.
These include the assortment of more than 100 musical wind tools, several snapshots, his sunglasses, his travel document he used while touring before 1979 and his VW panel van, given a gray finish.
His cycling gear, featured during the band's video and shown in the release's graphics, will be auctioned this November 19.
Sale Information
The projected worth from the event is $450,000 to $650,000.
Kraftwerk were groundbreaking – they were one of the first bands with electronic gear crafting compositions unlike anything prior.
Other bands considered their music “mind-blowing”. They suddenly discovered this new pathway for compositions that Kraftwerk created. It inspired numerous artists to shift towards of using synthesised electronic music.
Featured Lots
- A vocoder probably the one Kraftwerk used on their albums during their peak and Computer World in 1981 could fetch a high estimate.
- An EMS Synthi AKS believed to be utilized for Autobahn their iconic release has an estimate of $15,000 to $20,000.
- The flute, an Orsi G alto played by him alongside electronic gear before moving on, may sell for $8K–$10K.
Unique Belongings
In the affordable range, a group of nearly 100 instant photos Schneider took featuring his wind collection is on sale for $100 to $200.
Other quirky objects, like a clear, vibrant yellow instrument plus a distinctive 16-inch model of a fly, displayed on Schneider’s studio wall, have estimates of $200–$400.
The musician's green-tinted shades and Polaroid photographs of him wearing them could sell for under $500.
Estate’s Statement
His view was that gear deserves activity and enjoyed by others – not left unused or remaining untouched. He hoped his tools to be passed to individuals that will cherish them: musicians, collectors and fans by audio creativity.
Ongoing Legacy
Reflecting on the band's impact, one noted musician commented: “From the early days, we were fans. Their work which prompted us pay attention: what’s this?. They created something different … something completely new – they deliberately moved past earlier approaches.”