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He was pioneer in the electronic genre whose band Kraftwerk revolutionized the sound of pop and influenced performers from David Bowie and New Order to Coldplay and Run-DMC.

Currently, the musical tools and musical instruments that Florian Schneider used to create some of the band’s best-known songs throughout two decades are estimated to earn hundreds of thousands of dollars during the upcoming sale this coming month.

Exclusive Preview into Final Solo Project

Compositions from an independent endeavor he had been creating shortly before his death after a cancer diagnosis at 73 years old in 2020 can be heard as a debut through a clip about the auction.

Wide Array from His Possessions

Alongside the compact synthesizer, his flute and robotic voice devices – utilized by him to make his voice sound like a robot – collectors can try to buy nearly 500 of Schneider’s personal possessions in the sale.

These include his set of more than 100 brass and woodwind instruments, numerous Polaroid photographs, his sunglasses, the ID he used while touring through the late '70s and his VW panel van, painted in a gray hue.

His cycling gear, used by him during the band's video also pictured on the single’s artwork, is also for sale on 19 November.

Sale Information

The total estimated value from the event ranges from $450,000 to $650,000.

They were innovators – they were one of the first bands with electronic gear producing sounds that no one had ever heard of before.

Other bands considered their music incredible. They suddenly discovered this new pathway for compositions developed by the group. It inspired many acts to move in the direction of using synthesised electronic music.

Featured Lots

• An effects unit probably the one Kraftwerk used in productions The Man Machine in 1978 and early '80s work may go for $30,000 to $50,000.
• The portable EMS model likely utilized for Autobahn the famous record has an estimate of a mid-range sum.
• The alto flute, a specific model featured in performances alongside electronic gear before moving on, is valued at $8K–$10K.

Quirky and Personal Items

For smaller budgets, a group of nearly 100 instant photos he captured of his woodwind and brass instruments is available for $100 to $200.

Other quirky objects, including a transparent, bright yellow acrylic guitar and an unusual 16-inch model of a fly, displayed at his studio, may go for $200–$400.

Schneider’s gold-framed green-tinted shades and Polaroid photographs featuring the glasses are listed at $300 to $500.

Official Message

His view was that gear deserves activity and enjoyed by others – not stored away or collecting dust. He hoped his tools to be passed to people who appreciate them: artists, gatherers and fans by audio creativity.

Enduring Impact

Recalling their contribution, one noted musician commented: Starting out, they inspired us. Autobahn was an album which prompted us pay attention: this is new. They produced something different … fresh sounds – they were consciously rejecting the past.”