Steps to Making a Rico Reed
Rico ensures the highest quality standards from platation to finished product. Careful inspection and minute attention to detail help make Rico reeds the most consistent on the market.
 |
Step 1: PlantingRows of cane are neatly planted and grow to be seven metres tall (23 feet). It takes up to five years for a new plantation to mature. |
 |
Step 2: HarvestCane is harvested in the winter, when the plant is dormant. Only the premium cane can be used for music; the rest is recycled for mulch or used to make furniture and fencing. |
 |
Step 3: Drying and SunningThe cane is set out to dry during the winter months. Then, in June, the sunning process turns the cane a bright, goldon colour. |
 |
Step 4: SawingThe long cane tubes are then cut to the proper length and sorted to the proper diameter for each instrument. |
 |
Step 5: SplittingFrom each tube, four splits, or segments, are produced. |
 |
Step 6: Blanking and SandingEach split is then cut so that the base is perfectly flat and the sides are tapered. The base, or "table", is then polished to a smooth finish. |
 |
Step 7: Creating the "Vamp"The "vamp," or reed profile, is precision-cut using diamond blades. |
 |
Step 8: Tip Cutting and Strength GradingThe reed tip is cut and then each reed is digitally measured to determine the strength. |
 |
Step 9: PackagingFinished reeds are marked and packaged in their protective reed holders, boxed, and sealed. |
Unit 14, Mile Oak Industrial Estate, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY10 8GA