The Birth of the "Excellence" Reed: Meeting the Needs of Jazz Saxophonists

The "Excellence" reed was developed to fulfill the expectations of jazz saxophone players by offering consistency, strength, and durability. Its progressive flexibility on the longer portion helps produce a fuller, deeper tone on popular jazz mouthpieces while maintaining body and stability in the higher register.

"Since opening my first workshop in 1982, I have always remained loyal to Franco Rigotti’s reeds. Though the cut wasn’t always my preference, the exceptional quality of the cane—grown, harvested, sun-dried, and aged with care in the Var (French Riviera)—has always satisfied me throughout the years.

By constantly refining my reeds and advising sax players on optimizing them, my collaboration with Rigotti became essential. I had come to know their cane well—its qualities and potential—along with the expectations of top saxophonists with whom I have worked for over 30 years.

The creation of a François Louis reed became a necessity. Thus, the 'Excellence Reed' was born."— François Louis