Leading Students

This school year is quickly coming to a close. I’ve really enjoyed leading students in the art of music. I’ve had the honor and responsibility to influence them musically and spiritually whether it’s through teaching in the classroom, giving private lessons, or leading worship at various gatherings. Helping them find perspective, passion, and purpose in life, builds their self-esteem and guides them to find their “voice” in the world.
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It’s Teacher Appreciation Week at Valley Christian Schools and it has been rewarding and uplifting to have others notice and appreciate the time and energy the teachers put in. I received this email from our High School Principal earlier this week: “I wanted to personally thank you for the commitment and character you bring to the hill each day. Teaching is not just a job. It is a life calling to shape the hearts and minds of the next generation…Thank you for the compassion and strength you model to our students so consistently…I see Jesus in you and it blesses me…Thank you for the difference you make every day.” ~ Dr. Jennifer Silva, Valley Christian High School Principal
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Thank you so much for your prayers and encouragement over the past months and years. May God encourage you and help you sense His working through you in all you do.

Classes Busking in Santa Cruz

The Guitar 2 and 3 classes performed in Santa Cruz last Friday getting experience with busking in front of people they didn’t know. As one of my students said, “Busking is more than just playing guitar on the street. It’s about bravery, creativity, and human connection. It shows that music doesn’t have to be on a big stage to matter—it can happen anywhere, even on a busy sidewalk.” Click HERE to watch the video.

Teaching Guitar and Electric Bass

I’ve been enjoying teaching guitar and electric bass at Valley Christian for 15 years now. Some students have continued with private lessons after they graduate. Mentoring students has been so fulfilling! They grow in confidence, skill, music artistry, and creativity. The guitar enables them to express themselves, write their own songs and stories, and feel creative in a supportive community.

The Complete Guitar Course

I have written the UC approved guitar courses for Valley Christian Schools and last summer I began working on a guitar course for Heartfelt Music Ministry. It will consist of 49 lessons, beginning through advanced, and include every guitar technique you can imagine, as well as songs, music theory lessons, and highlighted guitarists for each lesson like Phil Keaggy, Ed Sheeran, and Eddie Van Halen.

Upcoming Events

He Is Alive!

Life can get super busy and sometimes we miss what’s important. Easter is coming! It’s a perfect time to stop and reflect. We are loved, forgiven, and empowered by Jesus Himself. Take a moment to let this reality sink in. My two favorite Easter songs are He’s Alive by Don Francisco and Shout for Joy, which I wrote. They will help prepare you and inspire you for the impact of Jesus’ resurrection in your life. You can view them on my YouTube channel by clicking the links below. May this Easter be extraordinarily meaningful for you.

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Thank you for your faithful prayers and generous support. Because of you, I have courage and focus to continue these meaningful ministry endeavors.

Song – Shout for Joy

I wrote this song for Easter to be a celebration of Jesus’ resurrection. I asked Jesus into my heart when I was 12 and He has shown up in every aspect of my life. He has empowered me to get through life’s ups and downs with so much joy and fulfillment. Click here to watch!

Song – He’s Alive

This is a performance of me singing Don Francisco’s song He’s Alive. It’s the story of Peter the Apostle’s experience of denying Jesus, feeling total despair, then seeing Jesus right in front of him showing him undeniable love and forgiveness. He is alive! Click here to watch.

Mount Hermon Summer Concerts

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6/20 – The Katinas
6/27 – Heritage Singers
7/11 – Nichole Nordeman
7/18 – Phillips-Craig-Dean
7/25 – Fernando Ortega
8/1 – Sandi Patty

March Home Concert

For this month’s newsletter, I’m focusing on my online Home Concert this Sunday, March 15, at 1:00pm. I have recorded 10 songs this week to encourage you, give you hope, and strengthen your faith in Jesus. These songs span 25 years with a variety of experiences such as the song I wrote and sang to Sherri for our wedding and another about following Christ used by churches across the nation. One song was written for a cheerleading competition and still another was written for a class while I was getting my Master’s degree. I’m even including the song I wrote for Easter, which is just in time to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection. I will share personal stories about each song.

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I hope you can make it! It’s set up as a “Premier” on YouTube to begin at 1:00pm. The March Home Concert video will be available after it premiers, but we can chat together during the concert as it plays for the first time. I’ll be there and can answer questions and catch up with you. Check out the list of songs below.

Home Concert Song List

Here are the songs I will be performing Sunday:

~ Christ Only Always

~ Trust

Reggie’s Video Songs on YouTube

There are 8 of my 19 albums available on YouTube, Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music, HearNow.com, etc. Yet, all of them are only audio. Now, I have over 50 of my songs recorded on videos with audio and visual of me performing each song. You can go to the Reggie’s Songs YouTube Playlist and play any of the over 50 songs on the list. You can even make your own Playlist of specific songs you enjoy. You can also play through all of them by pressing play on the Playlist. Thanks for listening to my music!

New Believer’s Guide by Krisan Marotta

Start Strong: A New Believer’s Guide to Christianity is a 15-chapter biblical guide for new Christians covering essential topics: salvation, sin, grace, faith, the Holy Spirit, and living for Christ, written by veteran Bible teacher Krisan Marotta (teacher of the podcast Wednesday in the Word). Start Strong offers the clear, foundational truths every Christian needs to build a confident and lasting walk with God. I just finished this helpful book and recommend it for anyone at the beginning of their spiritual journey. Check it out: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FSDY695W

Upcoming Events

March 15, 2026, 1:00pm (Sunday). Reggie’s March Home Concert Online, This will be on my YouTube Channel – https://youtu.be/x5iurFbeMis?si=hY2Y9samIIBb_IEN

• 6/20 – The Katinas
• 6/27 – Heritage Singers
• 7/11 – Nicole Nordeman
• 7/18 – Phillips, Craig, and Dean
• 7/25 – Fernando Ortega
• 8/1 – Sandi Patty

Character & Integrity

I have written an article under the Think about It section on the Heartfelt Music website to guide and challenge you with a thoughtful look into what character and integrity means. CLICK HERE to read the full article.

Character and integrity are not merely abstract concepts. They are values that are lived out and permeate every interaction we have, both personally and professionally. As individuals who create and inspire through our artistic expressions and daily lives, fostering a commendable character and unwavering integrity becomes essential not only for our development but for the positive influence we can have on others.

Character encompasses the collection of traits that define a person. These attributes can span various domains such as the physical, emotional, mental, and moral. Together, they serve as a framework through which others perceive us, determining whether we are seen as having a commendable character or a reprehensible character. A person characterized by commendable qualities displays honesty, helpfulness, and respect for others. Such individuals are often viewed as reliable and trustworthy, making their presence uplifting and inspiring. The moral and personality traits that contribute to good character act as guiding principles, directing behavior in a way that is aligned with ethical standards.

Integrity represents a commitment to honesty and maintaining consistent moral principles. It is a trait marked by the ability to do the right thing, even when no one is looking. Integrity demands a convergence of one’s actions, values, and character, reinforcing reliability and ethical behavior. Integrity isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being whole (the word actually comes from the Latin integer, meaning “intact” or “whole number”).

May you experience “wholeness” and integrity in your life and character.

Private Lessons & Coaching Online

Would you like to take your guitar playing to the next level? I am teaching both children and adults online and in person, both acoustic and electric guitar and electric bass guitar. Do you know a friend or family member who would like to take lessons? I am teaching on Tuesdays through May and would love to help you in your music endeavors. Email me if you have any questions.

Devotionals to Encourage You

One of my responsibilities with Valley Christian Schools is to coordinate and create online devotional videos for those who can’t make the devotions in person. There are about 75 of these faith building videos on a YouTube Playlist open to the public. From topics like “Identity in Christ” to “Meaningful Interruptions,” you can be encouraged too.

Vocal Workshop for Singers

Working with musicians who either lead singing in churches or love to sing while playing guitar, there’s always a desire to improve. I recorded a vocal training workshop for a church and now I’m making it available for everyone. I explain the elements of great vocal production, problems to avoid, how to sing with confidence, and more. I majored in Vocal Performance in college and love to sing!

Coming Events

• 6/20 – The Katinas
• 6/27 – Heritage Singers
• 7/11 – Nicole Nordeman
• 7/18 – Phillips, Craig, and Dean
• 7/25 – Fernando Ortega
• 8/1 – Sandi Patty

One of the best ways to get important information to sink deeper into our lives is by the “sharing of ideas” with each other.  In this section, I’ll be giving reviews on books, bringing up significant issues, asking relevant questions, and commenting on things worthy of thought and discussion.  Feel free to add your insights and comments.  May God cause His truth to permeate our lives and transform us into His likeness.

It is essential to understand and pursue good character and integrity as those who influence others through our art and our very lives.

What is Character?

Character encompasses the collection of traits that define a person. These attributes can span various domains such as the physical, emotional, mental, and moral. Together, they serve as a framework through which others perceive us, determining whether we are seen as having a commendable character or a reprehensible character.

The Importance of Good Character

A person characterized by commendable qualities displays honesty, helpfulness, and respect for others. Such individuals are often viewed as reliable and trustworthy, making their presence uplifting and inspiring. The moral and personality traits that contribute to a commendable character act as guiding principles, directing behavior in a way that is aligned with ethical standards.

Examples of Positive Character Traits

• Integrity: Upholding strong moral principles.
• Courage: The ability to confront fear or adversity.
• Trustworthiness: Being honest, reliable, and loyal.
• Respect and Courtesy: Treating others with kindness and consideration.
• Responsibility: Holding oneself accountable and demonstrating diligence and self-control.
• Fairness: Acting with justice and without prejudice.

What Is Integrity?

Integrity represents a commitment to honesty and maintaining consistent moral principles. It is a trait marked by the ability to do the right thing, even when no one is looking. Integrity demands a convergence of one’s actions, values, and character, reinforcing reliability and ethical behavior. Integrity isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being whole (the word actually comes from the Latin integer, meaning “intact” or “whole number”).

Key Aspects of Integrity

• Honesty & Truthfulness: Being genuine in word and deed, including self-honesty.
• Consistency: Upholding values consistently and not swaying with convenience.
• Ethical Conduct: Adhering to high moral standards of fairness and justice.
• Accountability: Owning one’s actions and their consequences.
• Courage: The resolve to do what is right, despite challenges or opposition.

The Importance of Integrity

Here is why integrity is the “glue” that holds both people and societies together:

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1. The Foundation of Trust

Trust is the currency of any relationship—whether it’s a marriage, a friendship, or a business partnership. With integrity, you see:

• Predictability – Integrity makes you predictable in a good way. People know your actions will align with your stated values.
• Efficiency – When people trust you, they don’t feel the need to “double-check” your work or second-guess your motives. This allows things to move faster and more smoothly.

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2. Inner Peace and Mental Clarity

Living a life without integrity is exhausting because it requires a lot of keeping track of what you do and say. With integrity, you see:

• Consistency: When your internal values match your external actions, you experience less cognitive dissonance.
• No “Web of Lies”: You don’t have to remember which version of a story you told to whom. Your reality is consistent, which significantly reduces stress and anxiety.

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3. Reputation and Long-term Success

In the short term, cutting corners or being dishonest might provide a “win.” However, integrity is a long-game strategy. With integrity, you see:

• The “Compound Interest” of Character: Over time, a reputation for integrity becomes your most valuable asset. It opens doors to leadership roles and high-stakes opportunities that aren’t available to those with questionable track records.
• Resilience: When you inevitably make a mistake, people are far more likely to forgive someone who has a history of honesty than someone who has a history of manipulation.

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4. Setting the Standard

Integrity is contagious. When a leader or a parent acts with integrity, it creates a “psychologically safe” environment. It signals to others that they don’t need to resort to underhanded tactics to succeed, which raises the bar for the entire group.

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Conclusion

Character and integrity are not merely abstract concepts. They are values that are lived out and permeate every interaction we have, both personally and professionally. As individuals who create and inspire through our artistic expressions and daily lives, fostering good character and unwavering integrity becomes essential not only for our development but for the positive influence we can have on others.

My hope for this Christmas is for you to be full of joy and wonder during this wonderful season! There are a number of ways to enjoy this Christmas season by listening to my music. I performed a Home Christmas Concert last year you can view on my YouTube Channel. On a previous video, you can sing-a-long to Christmas carols a while the lyrics appear on the screen. My album I Wish You a Mary Christmas includes familiar and worshipful Christmas carols. CLICK HERE to hear the songs on the album and where it’s available. You can purchase this album digitally through Gumroad – CLICK HERE. You can purchase physical CDs though our website – CLICK HERE. You can add Mary Christmas to your YouTube Playlist with this link from my Home Concert last month (CLICK HERE).

Recent Events

There’s been significant ministry throughout November: Training worship musicians through a private workshop with Cornerstone Evangelical Baptist Church; Leading worship music with the Shalom Gathering at Mount Hermon; Weekly private lessons in person and online; Being interviewed on Alden Olmsted’s Podcast regarding my songs written for Mexico Outreach; and teaching guitar at Valley Christian Schools.

Your Donations Make a Difference

It would be an honor if you would consider contributing to Heartfelt Music® Ministry, under-girding and supporting the meaningful and transformative work we are doing. CLICK HERE to make a donation. No fees will be taken out and your gift is tax-deductible since we are a nonprofit 501(c)3, no matter how much. We are so grateful for your continued prayers for our Ministry.

Home Concert November 2025

If you missed the concert I performed at my home last month online, it is available now through my YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFj3zACCORA. I’m excited how this turned out with stories behind each song and sharing my music in a cozy setting. The concert is 45 minutes long with 10 original songs.

New Book Release by Lynn Fox

I wrote the Preface to this book by one of my favorite Bible School instructors Lynn Fox, Psy.D. This book is about the Presence of Intimacy, Passion, and Pleasure from a Biblical perspective. “In a world increasingly captivated by both the complexities of human connection and the search for spiritual fulfillment, it is rare to find a work that so boldly addresses the intersections of two profoundly significant aspects of our lives: sex and worship. Sex and Worship is probably one of the most provocative book titles to grace the pages of contemporary literature, yet Lynne Fox does not shy away from the challenge. Through her insightful prose, she masterfully interweaves these critical topics, creating a tapestry that speaks to both the heart and the spirit.” (from the preface) CLICK HERE to order a copy.

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Home Online Concert & Live Stream

I will be showing a new Home Online Concert this Sunday, November 9, at 5:00pm, but in addition to that, I’ll be Live Streaming a half hour before that at 4:30pm. I can chat with you, catch-up and answer questions. Click this link to join the Live Stream with me: https://youtube.com/live/-OIdJ-WnJn0. Then, at 5:00pm, click this link to watch the new Home Concert – November 2025: https://youtu.be/rFj3zACCORA

The songs I’ll be including in this Home Online Concert will be a variety of my songs from a number of different albums throughout the years. I’ll share stories behind each song and you’ll see me play and sing fresh versions of each song.

• No Greater Love
• Here to Worship
• Windows
• Cast Away
• Reap What You Sow
• Stand Firm and Be Strong
• Touch My Heart
• Hold Me
• Mary Christmas
• Time with You

Podcast: Reggie’s Mexicali Songs

Alden Olmstead has a podcast called 5 Great Questions. After I posted on my YouTube Channel a Playlist of 3 theme songs I wrote for Azusa Pacific University’s Mexico Outreach, he wanted to interview me on his podcast. I led worship music for 10 years during the week before Easter. Alden also went to Mexicali at the same time with his church group. Radically Committed, Go the Distance, and Take it to Heart were the 3 songs. We even included Ain’t Nobody. Find it on YouTube or Apple Podcasts.

Thanksgiving Observance

Mt. Hermon 2026 Summer Concerts

We have already selected who will be in concert for the Mount Hermon Summer Concert Series and the summer of 2026 should prove to be a summer of rich music and faith celebration. Artist/Band line-up:

• 6/20 Katinas
• 6/27 Heritage Singers
• 7/11 Nicole Nordeman
• 7/18 Phillips, Craig and Dean
• 7/25 Fernando Ortega
• 8/1 Sandi Patty

You can reserve seats by going to the Mount Hermon Summer Concert Page

Passion & Tenacity 

Autumn is here and the color of the leaves are beautiful! I hope you experience fulfillment and joy during this season. Thank you for your continued engagement with me and Heartfelt Music® Ministry. You help this ministry stay vibrant and productive.

There’s been a lot of things happening with me over the last month. I’m still developing The Complete Guitar Course with 49 lessons; I just added 30 videos of me playing and singing individual songs on YouTube so you can find specific ones for encouragement; I’m performing another Home Concert November 9th with a personal Live Stream just before it; We just had our annual Board of Directors & Officers dinner (What a joy to serve with these folks!); I’m also teaching guitar and bass classes at Valley Christian School and private lessons both online and in person. It’s a full schedule, but I still have plenty of time to be with Sherri and balance family life. I’m thankful to be doing what I’m passionate about.

On our website, there’s a section called Think About It with helpful ideas to spur us on to excellence and motivation. The recent post is a focus on Passion and Tenacity.

Genuine passion is a deep, authentic commitment to something that matters to you, characterized by focused effort, enduring commitment through challenges, and integration into your identity, rather than just a fleeting interest or a pursuit of pleasure. It involves investing significant time and energy, a willingness to make sacrifices for it, and a deep, often unspoken, internal drive.

A tenacious person is someone who is determined, persistent, and does not give up easily when pursuing a goal. They are resilient in the face of obstacles, with a strong work ethic and the resolve to see things through, even when they are difficult or progress is slow.

How about you? What are you passionate and tenacious about? Our website post goes into more detail.

You can hear the audio for any song on eight of my albums on our YouTube Channel by clicking on the album here:

Encore (8 Songs/Videos)

Instrumental Guitar, Volume II (10 songs/videos)

Heartfelt Worship (17 songs/videos)

I Wish You a Mary Christmas (10 songs/videos)

Here & Now (10 songs/videos)

Instrumental Guitar, Volume I (10 songs/videos)

Intimacy (20 songs/videos)

Heartfelt Celebration (20 songs/videos)

Now, you can also watch me play any of 30 individual songs on our YouTube Channel. You can also watch and listen to the whole playlist. I hope these songs uplift you today!

Reggie’s Songs Playlist
Abundant Sunshine
Ain’t Nobody
Celebrate
Draw Near to God
Filled with You
Freedom’s Challenge
Getting Stronger
Go the Distance
God’s Love Medley
Here & Now
I Can Laugh Now
I Can’t See the Future
I Lift My Love to You
I’ll Worship with My Life
Isaiah 12:2
Jesus Lives in Me
Lord I’m Yours
Morning Come Lately
My Prayer for You
Partly Cloudy
Peace
Radically Committed
Remember
Ruminate on Grace
Seasons
Slow Me Down
Stephanie
Take a Stand
Worthy & So Wonderful
You Will Make a Way