The auction, at the Hotel Drouot auction house, will benefit a new foundation organized by Bechet's son, drummer Daniel Bechet.

Born in New Orleans, Bechet was an influential composer and performer, playing both clarinet and soprano saxophone. A powerful soloist, he helped bridge the polyphonic jazz of New Orleans and the swing era, and established a template for such saxophonists as Johnny Hodges. In the 1950s, he settled in France, where he enjoyed his greatest success. He died in Paris in 1959.