Kraftwerk Co-Founder's Iconic Instruments Go to American Sale

He was pioneer of electronic music and his ensemble Kraftwerk transformed the sound of pop and influenced performers from David Bowie and New Order to Coldplay and Run-DMC.

Now, his synth gear and musical instruments employed by Schneider in crafting some of the band’s best-known songs during the '70s and '80s could fetch substantial bids as they go under the hammer at auction next month.

Exclusive Preview of Final Personal Work

Recordings from an independent endeavor the artist was developing just before he died after a cancer diagnosis at 73 years old in 2020 is being shared as a debut through a clip about the auction.

Vast Assortment from His Possessions

Alongside his portable synth, his flute and his vocoders – which he used to make his voice sound like a robot – collectors can try to acquire nearly 500 of Schneider’s personal possessions at the auction.

This encompasses his set of more than 100 musical wind tools, many instant photos, his sunglasses, the ID used on tour until 1978 and Volkswagen vehicle, given a gray finish.

The bike he rode, which he rode in Kraftwerk’s Tour de France music video and is depicted on the cover art, is also for sale later this month.

Auction Details

The projected worth of the sale falls between $450K and $650K.

They were innovators – among the earliest acts with electronic gear crafting compositions that no one had ever heard of before.

Additional artists viewed their songs “mind-blowing”. They suddenly discovered an innovative direction in music pioneered by the band. It encouraged numerous artists to shift towards synthesizer-based tunes.

Featured Lots

• An effects unit that is likely the one Kraftwerk used in productions The Man Machine in 1978 plus later releases could fetch $30,000 to $50,000.
• The portable EMS model likely employed in early work their iconic release has an estimate of $15,000 to $20,000.
• The alto flute, a classic design played by him alongside electronic gear through the early '70s, may sell for $8K–$10K.

Unique Belongings

Among the lowest-priced items, an assortment with dozens of snapshots he captured featuring his wind collection is on sale at a low estimate.

More unusual pieces, like a clear, bright yellow acrylic guitar and a “very unique” insect replica, placed on Schneider’s studio wall, are priced at a few hundred.

His framed green-tinted shades plus snapshots showing him with these are estimated at under $500.

Estate’s Statement

He felt that instruments should be used and shared – not stored away or collecting dust. He wanted his tools to be passed to people that will cherish them: artists, gatherers and fans by the art of sound.

Ongoing Legacy

Reflecting on Kraftwerk’s influence, one noted musician stated: Initially, they inspired us. Autobahn was an album which prompted us sit up and say: what’s this?. They produced unique material … fresh sounds – they intentionally avoided the past.”