Michael has loved music since he was a child and was heavily influenced by the records his parents would play around the house, many of which he still has. “I can remember hearing lots of different sounds around the house: Ray Charles, Sergio Mendes & Brazil 66, Stevie Wonder, Lou Rawls, Ella Fitzgerald, Carmen McRae, the Motown groups and so many jazz artists. I didn’t really know what I was listening to, but it all became the soundtrack to my childhood.” Michael’s appreciation for music would only grow as he was exposed to more different types of music. Michael started playing the guitar in 1981 when his brother-in-law gave him his first instrument. Soon after, he hooked up with Rory Seldon at the church they both grew up in, and the seeds of INNERSESSION were born. By that time, Michael had discovered the music of P-Funk (Parliament, Funkadelic and Bootsy Collins) which led him to Rock n Roll in general and Jimi Hendrix in particular, all of which heavily influenced his style of playing. Around 1988, Michael also began playing the bass after Rory bought one with the intention of learning to play it. Rory never picked it up, but Michael did, and soon became a dual instrumentalist. Michael continues to play both instruments today. In the early 90’s, Michael began playing the bass with a group of his co-workers, the L.A. DOTs. Led by the brilliant guitarist Harry Scott, this group played a wide range of Blues, Classic Rock, R&B and dance music. They quickly went from just playing at the annual LADOT Christmas party to the larger “City Circuit,” playing for functions such as retirement parties, picnics, the City Attorney’s office and one of Mayor Richard Riordan’s farewell receptions. They were scheduled to play at the Grand Re-Opening ceremony for L.A.’s City Hall building in September of 2001, but that celebration was cancelled after the horrific events of 9/11. Michael is currently a member of RORY SELDON with INNER SESSION, playing regularly with the group. Michael’s musical interests remain as diverse as ever. He enjoys listening to jazz, classical, rock, punk, ska, hip hop, reggae, fusion, heavy metal and more. Michael is also a devoted family man, an IT professional and an avid skier.
| Michael Chaney Guitar, Bass 
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Cyndi Holman Vocals, Keyboards, Percussions
 | Even as a young child, Cyndi was always drawn to music. From playing songs for Sunday School to playing 1st violin in Middle School. She was in numerous talent shows during high school and college. Realizing that she had a love of music and the arts, she went on to study classical music for 6 years and also did theatrical performances in her home town of Tulsa, Oklahoma. After relocating to California, Cyndi joined a local church praise team where she began singing more regularly. Cyndi loves to listen, and gets her inspiration from, classic divas such as Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight. It is no wonder that her voice rings through with a powerful resonance. Cyndi met Rory Seldon in 2002 and has recorded lead and background vocals on ETCHED in STONE, CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS with FRIENDS and ALL I KNOW. When Rory pulled INNERSESSION back together, he called on Cyndi to add her special blend of vocals to the group. Cyndi’s authentic, pure sound is refreshing and powerful. Cyndi is also a member of a musical theatre group in West LA and can be seen in performances in local plays around town. In her spare time, Cyndi loves to dance and make jewelry. "Life is too short to stand by and be idle. Take every opportunity that God gives you and make the most of it!" |
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Pete Drey’s love for music began at a very
early age. He quickly realized that drumming would be his passion as it was
obviously his gift! He started playing drums at 10 years old. Playing throughout
his childhood and youth, he experienced all genres’ of music in various types of
bands. At the age of 20 he was invited to travel with the Continental Singers
and Orchestra. He toured for 3 years with the Continentals to over 12 countries
and 49 of the states in America!
In 1985, Pete was personally hired by Pastor
Rick Warren to be the house drummer for Saddleback Church. Fourteen years later,
he and his wife began full-time ministry in churches in California, Hawaii and
New York City.
Pete has played with musicians from former
Beach Boys, to R&B ensembles. He is valued as one of the most versatile drummer
with a joyful attitude and fun-loving personality.
Other musical credits include, top well
known musicians in the Hawaiian Islands i.e. Ernie Cruz Jr., John Cruz, Guy
Cruz, Imua and Tiffany Garza and Kahale Morales. He also “sat in” with Philip
and Habib Bardowell, David Pettway and Norm Stockton. Most recently, Pete had
the privilege to sit in with Phil Carrillo and Steel Parade Band.
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Pete Drey
Drums
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