Mark Knopfler’s guitar collection to be auctioned
Mark Knopfler Auctions Off Iconic Guitars for Charity
January 18, 2024 – 10:06 AM PST
LONDON (Reuters) – British musician and former Dire Straits frontman Mark Knopfler is selling off a large part of his extensive guitar collection at a London auction with part of the proceeds going to charity.
The collection, which includes some of the most significant guitars from Knopfler’s 50-year career, is on show at Christie’s auction house ahead of the Jan. 31 sale.
“It’s a wonderful collection of 122 items from Mark Knopfler spanning all of his career and it… represents physically his career as a musician and an instigator and supplier of our communal soundtrack,” Kerry Keane, Christie’s specialist consultant for musical instruments, told Reuters.
A 1983 red Schecter Telecaster-style guitar used to record Dire Straits’ hit “Walk of Life” and which featured in its accompanying music video is estimated at 4,000 – 6,000 pounds ($5,072 – $7,609).
A 1983 Gibson Les Paul Standard ’59 reissue used for the track “Money for Nothing,” which contains one of Knopfler’s most iconic guitar riffs, has an estimate of 6,000 – 8,000 pounds.
Christie’s said an original version of the 1959 Gibson Les Paul used by Knopfler for performances in the 2000s was likely to fetch the sale’s highest price, with an estimate of 300,000 to 500,000 pounds.
“It is a really special vintage instrument that in its own right without the Mark Knopfler connection is very valuable,” said Christie’s specialist head of private and iconic collections, Amelia Walker, who is leading the sale.
For Dire Straits fans with less cash to hand, the sale is also offering lots, including a balalaika, valued at 300-500 pounds.
($1=0.7885 pound)
Reporting by Kristian Brunse in London Editing by Matthew Lewis
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Which charitable causes will the proceeds from the auction be donated to?
Ofler during his time with Dire Straits is also part of the collection. The guitar, which was famously used to record the band’s hit song “Sultans of Swing,” is expected to fetch between 50,000 – 70,000 pounds ($63,401 – $88,761).
Knopfler, known for his distinctive guitar style and fingerpicking technique, has accumulated a vast collection of guitars throughout his career. The auction will give fans and collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece of music history and support charitable causes at the same time.
Proceeds from the auction will be donated to various charities that are close to Knopfler’s heart. The musician has been a long-time supporter of causes such as children’s education and healthcare, environmental conservation, and the fight against poverty. By selling his guitars, Knopfler hopes to make a significant impact in these areas and create positive change.
The auction industry has seen a growing trend of musicians selling off their prized instruments for charity in recent years. From Eric Clapton to David Gilmour, many iconic musicians have used their fame and influence to raise funds and awareness for causes they believe in. These auctions not only provide a unique opportunity for fans to own a piece of music history but also serve as a reminder of the power of art to make a difference in the world.
The Mark Knopfler guitar collection auction will undoubtedly attract music enthusiasts and collectors from around the world. Guitar aficionados will have the chance to bid on guitars that have played a significant role in some of the most memorable songs in rock history.
Whether it’s the soulful sound of the Schecter Telecaster on “Walk of Life” or the electrifying riffs from the Gibson Les Paul on “Money for Nothing,” these guitars represent the essence of Knopfler’s musical legacy. Each instrument carries with it a story and countless memories of concerts, recordings, and creative inspiration.
Knopfler’s decision to part with these beloved guitars reflects his commitment to giving back and making a difference in the world. As artists, we have the power to use our platforms for good, and Knopfler’s auction is a prime example of that. By channeling his passion for music into philanthropy, he is leaving a lasting impact that extends far beyond the stage.
The Mark Knopfler guitar collection auction is not only an opportunity to acquire a piece of music history but also a chance to contribute to meaningful causes. As the auction date approaches, it is likely that there will be a flurry of excitement and anticipation in the music community. With every bid placed, hope and support will be given to those in need.
In a world that often seems filled with turmoil and uncertainty, it is heartening to witness artists like Mark Knopfler using their influence and talent to make a positive difference. His decision to auction off his iconic guitars is a testament to the power of music to inspire change and bring people together. Let us hope that this auction is a resounding success, both in terms of funds raised and the impact it will have on the lives of those who benefit from the chosen charities.
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