Vandoren TRADITIONAL 1 - CR101
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Manufacturer Information
Vandoren
https://www.vandoren.fr
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Algam SAS
Email: contact@algam.net
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The Vandoren "Blue Box": A Reed That Has Become a Standard
In the world of Bb clarinet, Vandoren Traditional reeds have established themselves as a true standard, recognizable by their famous "blue box." This model has been appreciated for many years for its overall balance and consistency, both in practice and concert settings. Vandoren, a French company based in the south of France, controls the entire manufacturing chain, from cane cultivation to machining, to produce a reliable and high-performance reed.
For Which Clarinetist and Styles?
At strength 1, this reed is primarily aimed at beginner clarinetists, musicians seeking great ease of sound production, or those who want a softer playing sensation (for example, to work on tone, attack, and vibration). It suits a wide range of repertoires: classical (intonation and legato practice), jazz (flexibility and articulation), pop, and wind orchestras where response consistency is essential.
Sound and Design
Vandoren Traditional reeds are designed to offer a rich timbre and a homogeneous response throughout the entire range. Their design combines a thin tip (large vibration area, quick sound onset) and a thicker heart (support, stability, the backbone of the reed), which promotes precise articulation in both staccato and legato. The cut is recognizable by its horizontal line marking the scraping zone of the bark, a typical visual feature of this range.
Recommended Compatible Accessories
To optimize lifespan and consistency, a reed case and a humidifier/humidity control box are particularly useful (reed rotation, more uniform drying). A Bb clarinet swab also helps limit residual moisture in the mouthpiece and instrument body, stabilizing reed behavior throughout the playing session.
Technical specifications
| Category | Bb clarinet | Heel thickness | 2.8 mm |
| Force | 1 | Color | Blue |
| Material | reed | Quantity | 10 |
| Toe thickness | 0.09 mm | ||
| Range | Vandoren Traditional ("blue box") | Specific withdrawal right | for hygiene reasons, if the product has been opened, it cannot be refunded or exchanged |
| Tip thickness | 0.09 | ||
Questions frequently asked
Is strength 1 suitable for a beginner on Bb clarinet?
Strength 1 favors a flexible emission and easy vibration, which is particularly suitable for beginners' practice. It can also be chosen to develop attack and sound with less resistance.
Which clarinet is compatible with these reeds?
These reeds are designed for the Bb clarinet. They are made of cane and packaged in boxes of 10.
What tone does the Vandoren blue box offer?
The Traditional cut combines a 0.09 mm tip with a 2.8 mm heel. This design promotes a rich timbre, consistent response, and clear articulation in both staccato and legato.
Can these reeds be used for jazz and classical music?
This soft strength is suitable for classical work on intonation and legato, as well as for jazz articulation. It is also appropriate for variety music and wind orchestras.
Can an opened Vandoren Traditional reed box be exchanged?
For hygiene reasons, an opened box cannot be refunded or exchanged. A reed case or humidity control box helps better organize reed rotation and drying.



