CONN "SHOOTING STARS" DIRECTOR TRUMPET

The "Shooting Star" is the unofficial name of the  early Conn Director trumpets .  These were built between  the early fifties to 1970. The trumpets derive their name from a series of stars which are engraved along on the main tube, near the bell. The trumpets from the 50's, with the diagonal braces, are a little more desirable than the sixties model. The early models seem to respond better and project better, although the sixties models are decent too. The valves are a little noisy.... but not under pressure. They project a warm, mellow tone. Not the bite or the edge that an Olds Ambassador has..... but a smooth jazz or pop orchestra sound.

The Directors are built tough and will last for decades. The 14b and 18b are the corresponding model numbers for the Director series in the fifties. The 18b being made with a copper bell... giving it a darker more centered tone. The sixties model numbers changed to the 15b (brass) and the 17b (cooper).  These horns can be found in the range of 50.00 to 300.00 and offer a much better value than newer horns from china which can cost more. Most student horns were built with thicker skin... no exceptions here. This kept them from being dented easily by rambunctious students. Many players learned on these horns, with their 4 5/8 bell diameter bell and their free blowing ease of use, many more players will be weening their lips on these trumpets.

Here is a beautiful 14b 1956 model in excellent shape for sale here .