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As a trailblazer of electronic music and his ensemble the pioneering act revolutionized mainstream melodies while inspiring performers ranging from Bowie to Run-DMC.

Currently, the electronic equipment and performance items employed by Schneider in crafting some of the band’s best-known songs in the 1970s and 1980s may bring in a high six-figure sum during the upcoming sale at auction next month.

Rare Glimpse into Unreleased Solo Project

Music related to his own venture the artist was developing shortly before his death from cancer aged 73 back in 2020 can be heard as a debut via footage related to the event.

Vast Assortment of Personal Belongings

Together with the compact synthesizer, the wooden flute and robotic voice devices – which he used to make his voice sound like a robot – collectors have the opportunity to acquire nearly 500 his personal effects in the sale.

These include his collection of more than 100 wind and brass items, numerous Polaroid photographs, his sunglasses, the passport he used while touring until 1978 and Volkswagen vehicle, given a gray finish.

His Panasonic Panaracer bicycle, featured in Kraftwerk’s Tour de France music video also pictured in the release's graphics, is also for sale this November 19.

Bidding Particulars

The total estimated value for the auction is $450,000 to $650,000.

Kraftwerk were groundbreaking – they were one of the first bands with electronic gear and they created music unlike anything prior.

Additional artists viewed their songs incredible. They suddenly discovered a fresh route in music that Kraftwerk created. This motivated many acts to explore electronic synth sounds.

Featured Lots

• One voice modulator probably the one Kraftwerk used in productions The Man Machine in 1978 and early '80s work may go for a high estimate.
• An EMS Synthi AKS thought to be employed on Kraftwerk’s 1974 album the famous record has an estimate of a mid-range sum.
• His wind instrument, a specific model featured in performances during live acts before moving on, may sell for $8,000 to $10,000.

Quirky and Personal Items

For smaller budgets, an assortment of nearly 100 instant photos he captured featuring his wind collection is available for $100 to $200.

Additional unique items, including a transparent, vibrant yellow instrument plus a distinctive fly sculpture, placed on Schneider’s studio wall, have estimates of $200–$400.

His framed green-lens sunglasses and Polaroid photographs showing him with these are estimated at under $500.

Estate’s Statement

His view was that they are meant to be played and circulated – not sitting idle or collecting dust. He wanted his equipment to go to enthusiasts that will cherish them: performers, hobbyists and those inspired through music.

Ongoing Legacy

Recalling the band's impact, one noted musician commented: Starting out, we loved Kraftwerk. That record that had us take notice: what’s this?. They were doing something different … fresh sounds – they were consciously rejecting previous styles.”