Jim 'The Reverend Hopper' Hopson
– Trombone & Arrangements
Jim joined Ten Souljers in 2008, after being 'discovered' at a beer tasting playing James Brown tunes. Since then, he has become the band's primary source of both horn arrangements and comic relief.
Jim moved to Vancouver in 2007, having completed a BMus in Trombone Performance at the University of Victoria. He is a freelance performer and music educator with a wealth of experience in classical, Latin, jazz, folk, and pop music. Jim's musical career has taken him all over the world, including performances in Switzerland, Australia, Mexico, Japan, and the United States. In addition to trombone, Jim also plays euphonium and Swiss alphorn.
Jim comments on playing with Ten Souljers: "This band has the best group dynamic I've ever experienced. The chemistry on- and off-stage is truly remarkable, and the levels of musicianship, showmanship, and professionalism are top-notch. When Ten Souljers is laying down a tasty groove and the dance floor is hoppin', there's nowhere else I want to be!"
Simon "Crackers" Cracknell
Simon is one of the original members of the band. Known affectionately to his band mates (and the Queen) as "Crackers", he is one of the bands' real characters. Originally from Hull in the UK, he insists that he followed a flock of migrating geese to the place he calls "Gods' Country" (Vancouver, Canada).
Crackers served for 9 years onboard HM The Queens Royal Yacht Britannia, as part of the 24-strong Royal Marine Band. During this time, he gained experience in all manner of musical combinations, including military, orchestral, big-band, dance-band and pop. His residency took him all over the world on Royal visits, regularly performing as a Post-Horn soloist for the Queen, and such guests as Nelson Mandella, Boris Yeltsin, Bill Clinton, Lady Diana, and other Heads of State and dignitaries.
Conversely, Crackers is not particularly enamored with Elaine's dog. The unfortunate canine was once severely lambasted by a less-than-sober Aide-to-the-Queen, simply for being in his proximity.
Simple Simon says, "It is a pleasure to take the stage with this talented group of musicians. Just when we think we've peaked, we seem to take the band to a new level . . and repeatedly the band is blown away . That is a great feeling. The energy is felt and shared by the audience, which makes for a memorable show for both them and us. The dog thing is firmly in the past, and I regret any offence I caused to Elaine and indeed - the mut".
Anton Schamberger
– Tenor saxophone, Arrangements, & Choreography
Anton has been playing saxophone since age 10, and has played in numerous stage, concert, cover and original bands.
Anton has emerged as the "leader" of the horn section, and principle choreographer. A natural born performer, a thunderous soloist, and a permanent live wire. Anton's stage presence is befitting of his legendary playing. His contagious energy is the catylist for the Souljers reputation as "the liveliest horn section in town".
Anton, also a very accomplished singer, forms part of the formidable vocal ensemble. His sweet, feathery tones add a different dimension to the team.
In a recent interview with Playboy magazine, Anton was asked why he always looks like he's having the time of his life while on stage with Ten Souljers. Anton replied "When you get to be on stage with 9 other people, all of whom are very talented and fun to be around, and you’re playing the music you love, you can’t help but be excited. I wear that excitement on my sleeve while on stage with these guys!"
