Bios

David Cotton (tenor)

David is a 22 year barbershop veteran. David heard the "lock and ring" early on as his mother and father (a former director and Interpretation Judge) were big in the barbershop scene in the 70s and 80s. He has been involved around the Society through his eight years of directing the Vancouver Thunderbirds, coaching numerous groups (both male and female), attending a few Harmony Colleges, and singing in several very fun quartets. In fact, David was instrumental in teaching the Metzger brothers all about the craft of barbershop singing (remember Sonic Boom?). In spite of that, Tom and Mark went on to International greatness with Realtime.

In 2003, David's wife, Elaine, and her quartet Brava!, were crowned the first Canadian International Champions of S.A.I. David’s favourite quartet is Cotton Blend (a.k.a. his four daughters - Angela, Cheryl, Natalie and Theresa) or maybe one day, Cotton, The Act!

Brian Hamm (bass)

Brian began in the barbershop hobby in 1994, and since then has sung in several quartets and been an active chorus member in chapters across the country from Victoria to Ottawa. He was introduced to the style by his father-in-law who claims it was a requirement to marry his daughter. Of course, it didn't hurt that he took an instant liking to the style and hasn't been able to keep himself away from it since. Previously, Brian trained as a singer in classical and sacred music, and has sung in a number of high-calibre classical choral groups over the years.

Brian and his wife Michelle have a daughter, a son, and most recently, twin girls. Having finally caught up with David, he and Michelle aren't planning on having any more kids! Brian is an engineer and works in the telecommunications industry.

Dan Hofkamp (lead)
	Dan has been singing barbershop for over 5 years, and as our newest member (and only American!), he brings a strong singing lineage to the quartet. His uncles, Stan Boon and Charlie Boon, are well-known District champions with Milky Way. Dan's prior quartet, A Second Opinion, was a top level quartet from the Seattle area.

Mark West (baritone)

Mark brings 20 years of barbershop singing experience to the quartet. Past quartets include Free Trade and Special Request. Mark was introduced to barbershop by his dad John who recently celebrated his 53rd year in the barbershop society!

Mark's sister Barbara, sings in the SAI quartet, Bridges.

Mark is a very happy newlywed and lives in Abbotsford with his 17-year-old son, his beautiful new wife Carolyn, and two step-kids. Mark enjoys golfing and travels the globe working as an oil spill specialist - no, really!