Rico

The company’s history began in the early 20th century, named for an Italian composer, Joseph Rico. His nephew, Frank DeMichele (also known as Frank Di Michele), a clarinetist in Los Angeles, began importing French reeds in the 1920s due to the poor quality of local options. The business was formally established in 1928 as a reed importing company.

Around 1938, facing supply issues from France, Rico transitioned to manufacturing its own reeds, sourcing raw cane from the French Riviera where Joseph Rico had a home. The company later developed its own cane plantations and became known for consistency and quality.

J. D’Addario & Co. acquired the company in 2004, continuing the brand and expanding its product lines. Rico reeds, particularly the classic “orange box” design, are known for their ease of response and are popular among students and jazz musicians.