🔗 Share this article

This innovator in the electronic genre and his ensemble the German electronic band revolutionized mainstream melodies and influenced musicians ranging from Bowie to Run-DMC.

Presently, his synth gear and musical instruments employed by Schneider for producing the group's famous compositions during the '70s and '80s could fetch a high six-figure sum when they are sold in a November auction.

Rare Glimpse for Final Individual Composition

Compositions related to his own venture that Schneider was working on prior to his passing due to cancer at 73 years old back in 2020 is being shared for the first time via footage related to the event.

Vast Assortment of Personal Belongings

Together with the compact synthesizer, his flute plus voice modulators – that he employed creating mechanical-sounding vocals – enthusiasts have the opportunity to buy approximately 500 of Schneider’s personal possessions in the sale.

These include his collection exceeding 100 brass and woodwind instruments, several snapshots, his shades, the ID for his travels before 1979 and Volkswagen vehicle, given a gray finish.

His Panasonic Panaracer bicycle, used by him for the Tour de France clip and shown on the single’s artwork, is also for sale on 19 November.

Bidding Particulars

The projected worth from the event falls between $450K and $650K.

The group was revolutionary – among the earliest acts employing synthesizers producing sounds unlike anything prior.

Additional artists viewed their songs “mind-blowing”. They suddenly discovered a fresh route in music that Kraftwerk created. It inspired many acts to explore of using synthesised electronic music.

Highlighted Items

• One voice modulator probably employed by the band in productions The Man Machine in 1978 and Computer World in 1981 may go for $30K–$50K.
• An EMS Synthi AKS believed to be utilized for Autobahn Autobahn is valued at a mid-range sum.
• The alto flute, an Orsi G alto that Schneider used alongside electronic gear before moving on, is valued at $8,000 to $10,000.

Unique Belongings

In the affordable range, an assortment of about 90 Polaroid photographs Schneider took of his woodwind and brass instruments is on sale for a modest sum.

More unusual pieces, like a clear, vibrant yellow instrument and a “very unique” insect replica, displayed at his studio, are priced at a few hundred.

Schneider’s gold-framed green-lens sunglasses along with instant photos featuring the glasses are listed at $300 to $500.

Estate’s Statement

He felt that instruments should be used and shared – not sitting idle or gathering dust in storage. His desire was his instruments to go to individuals who would truly value them: artists, gatherers and admirers through music.

Lasting Influence

Reflecting on Kraftwerk’s influence, one noted musician said: Starting out, we loved Kraftwerk. Their work which prompted us pay attention: what’s this?. They were doing something different … something completely new – they were consciously rejecting the past.”