The Directors are built tough and will last for decades. but a smooth jazz or pop orchestra sound. Not the bite or the edge that an Olds Ambassador has. The early models seem to respond better and project better, although the sixties models are decent too. The trumpets from the 50's, with the diagonal braces, are a little more desirable than the sixties model. The trumpets derive their name from a series of stars which are engraved along on the main tube, near the bell. These were built between the early fifties to 1970. The 'Shooting Star' is the unofficial name of the early Conn Director Trumpets. The official description from Conn is listed below:

Serial number K55481 dates this trumpet to 1967. This is an American made instrument that is becoming increasingly more difficult to acquire. The trumpet still plays despite the cosmetic issues. This trumpet has dings and dents throughout, and is missing a finger button on the 1st valve. Copper Bell, Marching Men, and Shooting Stars engraved on the bell. This beautiful vintage trumpet from 1967 is one of the more highly desirable trumpets made by Conn.

Conn trumpet serial number 365359