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This innovator of electronic music whose band the pioneering act transformed mainstream melodies while inspiring performers from David Bowie and New Order to Coldplay and Run-DMC.

Currently, the electronic equipment and musical instruments utilized by the musician in crafting the group's famous compositions throughout two decades may bring in a high six-figure sum when they are sold at auction next month.

Rare Glimpse into Unreleased Personal Work

Compositions from an independent endeavor the artist was developing prior to his passing after a cancer diagnosis at 73 years old in 2020 is being shared for the first time via footage promoting the sale.

Extensive Collection from His Possessions

Together with his suitcase synthesiser, the wooden flute and his vocoders – which he used to make his voice sound like a robot – enthusiasts can try to acquire nearly 500 his personal effects through bidding.

Among them are the assortment exceeding 100 musical wind tools, numerous Polaroid photographs, eyewear, his travel document he used while touring until 1978 and Volkswagen vehicle, painted in a gray hue.

His cycling gear, used by him for the Tour de France clip and shown on the cover art, is also for sale on 19 November.

Auction Details

The approximate sum for the auction falls between $450K and $650K.

They were innovators – among the earliest acts that used synthesisers producing sounds entirely new to listeners.

Other bands found their tracks incredible. It revealed this new pathway for compositions developed by the group. It inspired numerous artists to shift towards of using synthesised electronic music.

Featured Lots

• A vocoder possibly the one Kraftwerk used for recordings The Man Machine in 1978 and Computer World in 1981 could fetch a high estimate.
• The portable EMS model likely utilized for Autobahn the famous record is appraised for a mid-range sum.
• The flute, a classic design played by him alongside electronic gear through the early '70s, is valued at $8K–$10K.

Distinctive Objects

Among the lowest-priced items, a group of about 90 Polaroid photographs photographed by him of his woodwind and brass instruments can be bought for $100 to $200.

Other quirky objects, like a clear, vibrant yellow instrument plus a distinctive fly sculpture, which was mounted on Schneider’s studio wall, may go for $200 to $400.

The musician's eyewear with green lenses plus snapshots featuring the glasses are estimated at $300 to $500.

Official Message

He felt that they are meant to be played and enjoyed by others – not stored away or collecting dust. He hoped his tools to find their way to individuals that will cherish them: artists, gatherers and those inspired by audio creativity.

Ongoing Legacy

Reflecting on the band's impact, a well-known drummer said: Initially, they inspired us. Autobahn was an album that made us all take notice: what’s this?. They created innovative work … entirely original – they intentionally avoided the past.”