Florian Schneider's Legendary Instruments Go to American Sale
He was pioneer within synth-based sounds and his ensemble Kraftwerk revolutionized the sound of pop while inspiring performers ranging from Bowie to Run-DMC.
Now, the electronic equipment and performance items that Florian Schneider used for producing the group's famous compositions in the 1970s and 1980s are estimated to earn hundreds of thousands of dollars as they go under the hammer this coming month.
Rare Glimpse of Late Individual Composition
Music related to his own venture he had been creating shortly before his death from cancer in his seventies two years ago can be heard initially in a video about the auction.
Wide Array of His Items
Alongside the compact synthesizer, his flute plus voice modulators – utilized by him for robotic vocal effects – enthusiasts have the opportunity to acquire nearly 500 items from his estate at the auction.
Among them are his set over a hundred musical wind tools, many instant photos, his shades, the passport for his travels until 1978 and his VW panel van, painted in a gray hue.
His cycling gear, featured in Kraftwerk’s Tour de France music video and is depicted on the single’s artwork, will be auctioned on 19 November.
Sale Information
The total estimated value from the event falls between $450K and $650K.
The group was revolutionary – as pioneers employing synthesizers producing sounds that no one had ever heard of before.
Additional artists found their tracks “mind-blowing”. They came across an innovative direction for compositions developed by the group. This motivated a lot of bands to move in the direction of using synthesised electronic music.
Featured Lots
- An effects unit probably utilized on albums for recordings from the late '70s and early '80s work could fetch $30,000 to $50,000.
- An EMS Synthi AKS likely employed in early work the famous record is valued at $15K–$20K.
- His wind instrument, an Orsi G alto that Schneider used on stage with the synthesiser through the early '70s, may sell for $8,000 to $10,000.
Distinctive Objects
In the affordable range, an assortment with dozens of snapshots he captured showing his musical tools can be bought for a modest sum.
Additional unique items, including a transparent, colorful bass and an unusual insect replica, placed on Schneider’s studio wall, are priced at $200–$400.
The musician's green-lens sunglasses along with instant photos showing him with these are estimated at under $500.
Family’s Words
His view was that instruments should be used and shared – not sitting idle or remaining untouched. He hoped his instruments to go to enthusiasts who appreciate them: musicians, collectors and admirers by audio creativity.
Ongoing Legacy
Reflecting on Kraftwerk’s influence, a well-known drummer stated: Starting out, they inspired us. That record that had us sit up and say: what is this?. They were doing unique material … entirely original – they deliberately moved past previous styles.”