Electronic Music Pioneer's Historic Equipment Go to Stateside Bidding
As a innovator of electronic music whose band Kraftwerk transformed the sound of pop and influenced musicians from David Bowie and New Order to Coldplay and Run-DMC.
Presently, his synth gear and performance items employed by Schneider to create Kraftwerk's iconic tracks in the 1970s and 1980s are estimated to earn a high six-figure sum during the upcoming sale at auction next month.
Rare Glimpse for Unreleased Solo Project
Music related to his own venture he had been creating just before he died after a cancer diagnosis aged 73 two years ago is available as a debut through a clip promoting the sale.
Extensive Collection from His Possessions
Alongside his portable synth, his wind instrument and robotic voice devices – utilized by him to make his voice sound like a robot – enthusiasts will get a chance to acquire nearly 500 of Schneider’s personal possessions through bidding.
These include his set of more than 100 musical wind tools, several snapshots, eyewear, the ID he used while touring until 1978 plus his custom van, given a gray finish.
His Panasonic Panaracer bicycle, featured for the Tour de France clip also pictured in the release's graphics, is also for sale later this month.
Sale Information
The total estimated value for the auction ranges from $450,000 to $650,000.
Kraftwerk were groundbreaking – among the earliest acts that used synthesisers producing sounds unlike anything prior.
Fellow musicians viewed their songs “mind-blowing”. They came across a fresh route for compositions that Kraftwerk created. It encouraged many acts to shift towards of using synthesised electronic music.
Highlighted Items
- An effects unit probably utilized on albums on their albums during their peak plus later releases is expected to sell $30,000 to $50,000.
- An EMS Synthi AKS thought to be the one used on Kraftwerk’s 1974 album their iconic release is valued at a mid-range sum.
- The alto flute, an Orsi G alto featured in performances alongside electronic gear until 1974, may sell for up to five figures.
Distinctive Objects
In the affordable range, a collection of about 90 Polaroid photographs he captured of his woodwind and brass instruments can be bought for a modest sum.
Other quirky objects, such as a see-through, colorful bass and a “very unique” fly sculpture, placed in his workspace, may go for a few hundred.
The musician's green-tinted shades along with instant photos featuring the glasses are estimated at $300 to $500.
Official Message
His view was that they are meant to be played and shared – not left unused or collecting dust. He wanted his equipment to be passed to individuals that will cherish them: musicians, collectors and fans by the art of sound.
Lasting Influence
Considering their contribution, a well-known drummer said: Starting out, they inspired us. Autobahn was an album that had us pay attention: what is this?. They created unique material … entirely original – they deliberately moved past previous styles.”