A hard surface of an applicator which may be formed by a diamond coating is placed in abutment against the reed of a single reed instrument such as a clarinet or saxophone or a double reed instrument such as an oboe. In a single reed instrument, the applicator is held tightly against the reed by means of a ligature which fits around the mouthpiece of the instrument to hold the reed and the applicator tightly together. In a double reed instrument such as an oboe, the staple or metal tube to which the reed is attached is coated at its top with a hard surface which may be formed by a diamond coating. The reed is abutted against the diamond surface by tightly tying a string around the cane thereby firmly securing it to the staple. The constraint of the reed in this manner makes it easier to play the instrument.