Florian Schneider's Iconic Equipment Head to American Sale
As a innovator of electronic music and his ensemble Kraftwerk revolutionized the sound of pop while inspiring performers including Bowie, New Order, Coldplay, and Run-DMC.
Now, the electronic equipment along with devices that Florian Schneider used in crafting Kraftwerk's iconic tracks during the '70s and '80s are estimated to earn a high six-figure sum as they go under the hammer this coming month.
Exclusive Preview of Unreleased Solo Project
Recordings from an independent endeavor the artist was developing just before he died after a cancer diagnosis aged 73 back in 2020 is available initially via footage promoting the sale.
Wide Array of Personal Belongings
Together with his suitcase synthesiser, his flute and his vocoders – utilized by him to make his voice sound like a robot – enthusiasts can try to buy nearly 500 items from his estate through bidding.
These include his collection of more than 100 wind and brass items, several snapshots, his sunglasses, the ID used on tour through the late '70s plus his custom van, given a gray finish.
His Panasonic Panaracer bicycle, featured during the band's video and is depicted on the cover art, is also for sale later this month.
Bidding Particulars
The projected worth for the auction ranges from $450,000 to $650,000.
They were innovators – they were one of the first bands with electronic gear and they created music unlike anything prior.
Additional artists viewed their songs astonishing. They came across an innovative direction for compositions pioneered by the band. It inspired many acts to move in the direction synthesizer-based tunes.
Highlighted Items
- One voice modulator probably employed by the band for recordings from the late '70s plus later releases is expected to sell a high estimate.
- An EMS Synthi AKS likely employed for Autobahn Autobahn is valued at a mid-range sum.
- The alto flute, a specific model featured in performances on stage with the synthesiser through the early '70s, is valued at $8K–$10K.
Quirky and Personal Items
Among the lowest-priced items, an assortment of nearly 100 instant photos he captured of his woodwind and brass instruments is on sale for $100 to $200.
Other quirky objects, including a transparent, vibrant yellow instrument and an unusual insect replica, placed on Schneider’s studio wall, have estimates of $200 to $400.
Schneider’s gold-framed green-tinted shades and Polaroid photographs featuring the glasses are estimated at under $500.
Official Message
He felt that instruments should be used and enjoyed by others – not stored away or remaining untouched. He wanted his equipment to be passed to enthusiasts who would truly value them: musicians, collectors and fans through music.
Enduring Impact
Reflecting on Kraftwerk’s influence, an influential artist commented: Starting out, we were fans. That record that had us take notice: what’s this?. They produced unique material … fresh sounds – they were consciously rejecting the past.”