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 .