A method for treating the natural cane reed used in woodwind musical
instruments. The method includes contacting at least the proximal portion
of said reed with a polymer treatment liquid, in which the liquid delivers
at least 1% by weight of polymer into the reed, based upon the percentage
increase in dry weight of that portion of said reed contacted by the
liquid. The reed remains substantially water-permeable, yet is rendered
resistant to degradation by saliva. An impregnated reed is also described,
in which at least the proximal portion of the reed has been impregnated by
a liquid that includes a non-toxic polymeric material that is
water-insoluble upon drying or curing within the reed. The impregnated
portion of the reed is at least 25% as permeable to water as an identical
portion of an equivalent untreated reed, yet is resistant to degradation
by saliva.