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.

.

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

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:

.

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.

.

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.

.

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.

.

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.

.

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.

Summer Concert Series at Mount Hermon

For the past eight years, Heartfelt Music Ministry has produced the Mount Hermon Conference Center’s Summer Concert Series. I have thoroughly enjoyed selecting the artists with the Conference Center’s leadership. Our hope is for you to find encouragement and spiritual refreshment. These concerts greatly enhance our Mission Statement: Leading others toward intimacy with God and excellence in artistry.

June 21 begins the concerts with popular and encouraging artists over six Saturdays. The concerts are free, but you’ll need to register through iTickets and indicate whether you want to sit inside or outside. Visit the Mount Hermon Concert Series Webpage for information on each concert and links to register. Concerts start at 6:30pm. Click HERE to watch a promo video of the Concert Series. Here’s the line-up:

6/21 – Buddy Greene & Jeff Taylor
6/28 – Point of Grace
7/12 – The Katinas
7/19 – Doyle Dykes
7/26 – Foto Sisters
8/2 – Phillips Craig & Dean

Below are other links to uplift you and give you the opportunity to join hands with us in ministry. Thank you for your prayers and support!

Enjoy Listening to Reggie’s Music

You can check out the many ways to enjoy listening to my music at HearNow.com. There are links to Spotify and many more. The eight albums included are:
– Encore
– Heartfelt Worship
– Here & Now
– I Wish You a Mary Christmas
– Intimacy
– Heartfelt Celebration
– Instrumental Guitar, Vol. 1
– Instrumental Guitar, Vol. 2

“My peace I give to you” – Jesus Christ

This verse is so relevant today. We need His peace and a sense a well being. My song called Peace is right from John 14:27 and accents one of the main messages He gives to His followers, He gives us peace today! Not only does a close relationship with Jesus give us overwhelming love and joy, but he provides us His calming peace that permeates every aspect of our lives. Click HERE to hear my song.

Support through Prayer & Giving

I am so grateful for your prayers and encouraging comments as I draw others closer to Christ through Heartfelt Music Ministry! If you would like to help support Heartfelt Music Ministry, you can contribute with confidence knowing your funds are being used for ministry purposes. PayPal Giving Fund will give you tax exemption and not take out any fees. Thank you for your support! Learn more at our Donation Page.

Follow on Social Media

This video is a Home Concert of Reggie Coates sharing nine of his songs created in March of 2025. He shares songs he wrote for Mexicali Outreach with Azusa Pacific University (Radically Committed, Go the Distance, and Take a Stand), one new instrumental called Partly Cloudy, and six songs to uplift you and strengthen your faith in Christ (I’ll Worship with My Life, Give Me Wings, Touch My Heart, Abundant Sunshine, and Jesus Lives in Me). Each song has an introduction from the beautiful Redwood forest of Mount Hermon, California, for your inspiration and enjoyment. It was first viewed on March 16, 2025, but now is available to view any time. This concert is just under 40 minutes long. Visit Reggie’s YouTube channel for more concerts and training resources.

Spiritual Grounding

Spiritual maturity and strength is of utmost importance at a time when there is so much confusion and uncertainty. Many of God’s biblical truths are being twisted and ignored. Growing in biblical understanding and spiritual wisdom is a practical way to get grounded in truth. Valley Christian School (VCS) gives each faculty member an incentive to learn more about biblical and relational truths by requiring us to earn Bible and Educational unit credits. Last month, I watched three video series on The Book of Job by Francis Chan, The Book of Romans by J.D. Greear, and Winning With People by John Maxwell. Each of these were so encouraging and motivational for me. Other avenues I have for personal spiritual growth is daily reading the Bible and creating devotionals for the Conservatory of the Arts department at VCS (see below). Are you taking time to nurture your faith and ground yourself in God’s Word?
.
A noteworthy event is happening this Sunday through my YouTube Channel. I’ve been working on an inspirational video which includes a performance at my home of nine significant songs with meaningful introductions to each song filmed at the Mount Hermon creek close to my house. Join me at 5:00pm to watch this new Home Concert Video and share comments with real-time interaction. If you can’t make it Sunday, once it opens at 5:00pm, you can watch it anytime after that. My goal is to enrich your relationship with Jesus and inspire you to live confidently in Him.

Home Concert Sunday, March 16

I am sharing significant songs of mine through a Home Concert Video at Mount Hermon, Sunday, March 16, beginning at 5:00pm through my YouTube channel. One new song is called Partly Cloudy reflecting on how life doesn’t always bring us sunshine.

VCS Encouraging Devotionals

One of the online devotions used to inspire the faculty at Valley Christian School is a short message by Francis Chan on having Jesus as the center of our life. I encourage you to watch it! He explains how a Christian is not just someone who goes to church.

Help Support Heartfelt Music

You can contribute to Heartfelt Music Ministry through Pay Pal Giving Fund with no fees taken out. We are a Non-Profit 501(c)3, which gives you a tax write off. You can give a one-time gift or a monthly reoccurring gift helping us with ongoing ministry. Thank you for your support!

.

Christmas is a beautiful time to reflect on Jesus and be encouraged through music, family, friends, with hopefully some time to relax a little. Last Sunday, I did a short concert to share some personal songs and familiar carols. The year before, I put together a Christmas sing-a-long for families to enjoy together with words on a screen. In 2020, I recorded a Christmas Album which is available on Spotify, Pandora, iTunes, YouTube, etc. Visit https://reggiecoates.hearnow.com/i-wish-you-a-mary-christmas to find out more about this album (as well as my other 7 albums).

.

Home Concert – Christmas 2024 (22 Minutes)

.

Christmas Carol Sing with Reggie Coates (30 Minutes)

Have a meaningful and merry Christmas!

Living a Balanced Life

Here we are in the middle of summer and it sure is flying by. I’m continuing to lead worship at various churches in the Bay Area and weekly train musicians and worship leaders in-person and through Zoom. I’m so grateful to help others excel in their musical and ministry endeavors.
.

There are four Saturdays left of the Mount Hermon Summer Concert Series. All the concerts are free, but you must register through iTickets. Veritas had to move to July 29, with Michael O’Brien, because of a family emergency. Here’s the new line-up:

• 7/15 – Nicole Nordeman
• 7/22 – The King’s Brass
• 7/29 – Michael O’Brien & Veritas
• 8/5 – Phillips, Craig & Dean (sold out)
  .

I did a Summer Home Concert through Facebook Live which is now available on my YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/dpx16y_XN6o. I played all the songs on my latest album, Encore, and wrapped it up with My Prayer for You. I hope it encourages you!
.

I’ve been hearing recently that more and more people are experiencing anxiety, emptiness, and despair. More pastors are feeling lonely; care workers are feeling discouraged; and teachers are feeling less valued. One way to personally work through this disheartening trend is by living a balanced life. How are we doing physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually? Stephen Covey, in his book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, gives 4 personal habits for us to keep in mind to help us stay balanced and victorious in life. These have been very inspiring for me.
.

1)  Be Proactive [Habit 1]
Take initiative in life by realizing that your decisions are the primary determining factor for effectiveness in your life. Take responsibility for your choices and the consequences that follow.
2)  Begin with the End in Mind [Habit 2]
Self-discover and clarify your deeply important character values and life goals. Envision the ideal characteristics for each of your various roles and relationships in life.
3)  Put First Things First [Habit 3]
Prioritize your life. Make sure you put the important things in your life before the many little things that can keep you from what matters most.
4)  Sharpen the Saw [Habit 7]
Balance and renew your resources, energy, and health to create a sustainable, long-term, effective lifestyle. Make regular time to reload physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

.
Our relationship with God is vital in maintaining a balanced life: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). God loves us deeply and wants us to enjoy an abundant life! May you experience intimacy with Jesus in a fresh way this summer!
.

Thank you so much for your ongoing prayers and support for Heartfelt Music® Ministry. We couldn’t do this ministry without you.

.

Upcoming Events

• July 16 & 30 (Sundays)
  I’ll be leading worship at San Jose Christian Reformed Church. It is located at 5150 Camden Avenue, San Jose, CA, 95124, (408) 266-4412. The service is at 10:00am.
• July 23 (Sunday)
  I’ll be leading worship at San Ramon Presbyterian Church. It is located at 12700 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583, (925) 543-7772. The service is at 9:00am.
• August 3 (Thursday)
  I’ll be playing instrumental guitar music during an Ice Cream Social at Saratoga Retirement Community, 14500 Fruitvale Ave., Saratoga, CA  95070, 6:30pm-8:00pm.

.

Stay in Touch on Social Media

Follow and share your thoughts on:
 

His Love Endures Forever

Psalm 100 is such an inspiration for us to worship the Lord with gladness! It’s only five verses long, but is loaded with expression and motivation to praise his name. Knowing that the Lord is God, who made us, and deeply loves us, his people, we can respond with shouts of joy, joyful songs, thanksgiving and praise. “For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations (Ps. 100:5).”

.

Come to one or all three of the remaining Mount Hermon Summer Concerts, produced by Heartfelt Music Ministry. Each concert is on Saturday starting at 6:30pm in the Conference Center auditorium. Go to http://mounthermon.org/summer-concerts to get more information. Even though the Phillips, Craig & Dean concert is “Sold Out,” come anyway as we’ve discovered that 20% of the people who have registered for tickets don’t show. We’ll fit you in!

.

Michael O’Brien is an American Christian musician and worship leader, who is an amazing vocalist and pianist. He has released eight solo albums since 1990. He was a touring member of the Heritage Singers before becoming a full-fledged member of NewSong in 1999. He is a Dove Award winner and received a Grammy Nomination for his songwriting. For the last few Christmas seasons, he has toured with the Foto Sisters who joined us at the beginning of our summer concert series. Michael places a high priority on family and will share the miraculous journey of his marriage. Come join him for his first time with us at Mount Hermon as a solo artist. Come join us this Saturday, July 16th.

New Songs & New Album

I’ve been writing songs this summer for a new album called Encore. One song, Hold Me, uses three capos and asks God to renew my heart today. Another song, You Pick Me Up, is for my grand-daughter and is an upbeat appreciation of her cuteness.

Summer Concerts at Mount Hermon

The Mount Hermon Summer concert series is each Saturday, July 16, 23, and 30, 6:30pm. You can sit inside or outside. All concert programs are open to the public without charge. Even though the Phillips, Craig and Dean concert is sold out, come anyway!

Listen to Reggie’s Music

There are seven albums of mine you can listen to through HearNow.com. You can hear the songs on Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music, YouTube, and more. If you’d like to purchase my music on CD or digitally, go to our product page at https://heartfeltmusic.org/products/.

Follow us on Social Media

Follow and share your thoughts on:

A Positive Perspective

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope this weekend is a relaxing and refreshing respite for you. There’s so much to be thankful for. Though there’s been a tremendous amount of hardships and struggles over this last year, it’s essential to keep a positive perspective. “I will give thanks to You, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all Your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in You; I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High” Psalm 9:1.

I was so thankful to lead worship in-person last month and do music for a special memorial service at Saratoga Retirement Community last week. I’m looking forward to doing more events in-person in 2022. I’ve been sharing online with Home Concerts and Worship through Facebook LIVE, which now is on my YouTube channel. I’ll be creating a special Christmas video to show Sunday, December 12th, full of carols from my Christmas album I Wish You a Mary Christmas, and inspirations to focus on Jesus’ incarnation.

Check out below a Grateful Heart Devotional Video, how you can help Heartfelt Music® during Giving Tuesday, November 30th, and Two Special Product Bundles we are offering now.

We appreciate your continued prayers and support for Heartfelt Music Ministry! We continue to influence others toward intimacy with God and toward artistic excellence.

A Grateful Heart Devotional Video

I create the weekly online devotional videos for the VCS Conservatory of the Arts. I want to share this week’s video called A Grateful Heart. I hope you are encouraged by the three speakers and an inspiration by Sarah Young from her book Jesus Calling. You can watch previous devotionals by viewing the playlist HERE. Spiritual nourishment is of utmost importance to have a daily positive perspective.

November 30th Giving Tuesday

November 30 is Giving Tuesday. You can donate to Heartfelt Music through Pay Pal Giving Fund. If you buy anything on Amazon.com, go through Amazon Smile and we receive a portion of your purchase without costing you anything extra. Same with eBay.com with eBay GivingWorks. If you purchase anything on eBay and list Heartfelt Music as your Charity, we receive a portion of it.

Two Special Product Bundles

There are two special Bundles available starting today: a CD BUNDLE: Get seven physical CDs for $40.00! Also, a WRITTEN MUSIC BUNDLE: Get eleven songs fully written out in music notation and tablature for $20.00! You will get the physical written music for my new song Ruminate on Grace from the new album Instrumental Guitar – Vol. II and ten other songs from my other albums.

Upcoming Events

December 12 (Sunday) – 5:00pm
Reggie Coates Online Christmas Special on his YouTube channel. Join him as he shares inspirational stories and music highlighting his Christmas album I Wish You a Mary Christmas. The link will be on the Heartfelt Music YouTube channel and facebook page.

.
December 7 (Tuesday) – 7:00pm
The Valley Christian High School Worship Team, led by Reggie, will be singing Christmas carols at a Mount Hermon Community private dinner in Mount Hermon.