Here in the Northeast, we have been experiencing mixed weather, as usual.  We can go from 60 degrees to 20 degrees Fahrenheit in one day.  This weekend we were down in temperature to single digit.  These extreme low temperatures are detrimental to woodwind instruments.

oboe reed staples with cork

In a small way, the cork which is inserted into the instrument to hold the reeds OR to hold the instruments together securely are adversely affected by extreme temperatures.

Clarinet Tenon Corks

A compounded problem occurs when saxophonists and clarinetists with too much cork grease or loose corks shorten their instrument due to playing and handling which makes the pitch rise even more.

Saxophone Neck Cork

Also, if brass players only tune their main tuning slide (usually pulled out, unless cold), then the sharp fingering combinations (all 2 and 3 valve combinations) become even sharper. This, of course, overtaxes the embouchure from continuous liping down which makes the tone quality sound more and more spread and unfocused.

Trumpet Water Key Cork

Bassoon Bocal with Cork