Well this is going to sound incredibly stupid, but I figured out my problem. Let me start by saying I'm one of two first trumpets (of 20 total trumpets) in our marching band. It's a sophmore and me, that's it. The other day one of my instructors finally got fed up and told me not to lead so much. Like a trained dog I did exactly that, and was pleasently surprised. My endurance nearly trippled, mouth piece pressure fell, and my tone improved slightly (frankly it never was far short of great). Looks like I just had a good ole fashion case of playing "hero."
Not that I've ever had a problem balancing down, but it is definatly a neat experience to be marching on the field, hear your own echo, and marvel at the fact that you're the only one playing it (our sophmore was sick a couple of times, so it was just me, like I like it).
Anyway, I learned my lesson. Maybe somebody else will read this and avoid the embarassment
