Because of this, woodwind instruments have to be able to adjust to the instruments that accompany them. For example, if a woodwind player is playing against a statically-tuned instrument such as piano, the wind player has to compensate for the inadequacies of equal temperament. Conversely, if a woodwind instrumentalist is playing with a brass section, the woodwind player is required to use just intonation for the best results. The mechanisms of woodwind instruments are a major consideration of woodwind intonation. Some signs that there might be mechanism problems are the need to over-grip, honking, huffing, squeakiness, clicking, and loose cork joints.
Key height is often a problem with woodwind instruments.
If the keys are too close to the tone holes when in open position, the instrument might sound choked and flat. If the keys are too far up, this can cause the instrument to leak, sound bright, and play sharp. Reeds are another consideration with most woodwind instruments. Reeds that are stiff give more wind resistance which, in turn, causes students to play sharp. There are many more considerations for brasswind intonation besides pushing or pulling tuning mechanisms.