Woodwind instruments do not have as much in common with each other as brass instruments do.  In fact, there is so much design variation that it is even difficult to come up with an acceptable definition of what woodwind instruments actually are.  Virtually every common denominator has an important exception.  As a result, it is not easy to make generalizations about such matters as embouchure formation, intonation problems or technical difficulties that are relevant for all woodwind instruments.  Fortunately, there are some natural subcategories (single versus double reed instruments, for example) around which the bulk of the discussion can be organized.  At this level at least, common characteristics can be more easily identified and potential problems addressed. 

This, then, is the approach I have taken here.  As in the case of the section on brass fundamentals, the emphasis is on basic principles and design issues, and how these affect the way woodwind players actually make music.