On Friday night I started using the rounded .464 tuning slide in my Zeus and it makes a great improvement in how it plays. I had originally tried using this slide when I first got it but could not tell the difference. This was largely due to me being more used to the open blow of my Conn V1. After playing the Zeus non stop for a few weeks I could definitely tell the difference. Looks like I found a configuration to stick with for a long time.

I'm sure a lot of people who visit my site wonder why I play the Zeus instead of the Conn. The main reason for me is the sound. I love the sound of the Zeus. The Conn, while dark – definitely has an edge that I am not looking for. The Zeus is mellow, dark and rich – qualities that I have in my head when I think of the best trumpet sound. It's all personal taste and sound is the biggest concern for me. A good friend of mine told me that a trumpet player's chops can adjust to any type of horn. I am willing to make the adjustment from the Conn to the Zeus to get that idea sound.

I have been working heavily on the Caruso stuff for a week now. As I sit here and type this journal entry and I can feel that my chops are slightly fatigued. Not to the point where I have swelling or pain – just evidence of a good solid workout. I like that. Right now I do the Caruso drills, rest, play my usual long tones, articulation, etc., rest and then close out with Caruso. I'm getting some great online help from the folks at the Trumpet Herald and my teacher is familiar with the routines as well. Hopefully I am on to something here. Only time (and patience) will tell.

More importantly – I feel like the distractions are behind me and I can focus again.