Album Release and Published Article

Hope your Autumn season is off to a good start! We just sent the September Newsletter last week, but because of the new album release, online concert, and recent publication of an article I wrote for Worship Leader Magazine, we’re sending the October Newsletter early. The Album Release Concert is this Sunday, October 4, at 5:00pm (PT) on Facebook Live. The new album, Hymns for Worship, is set to drop October 4 on all the streaming platforms like Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Amazon, and Pandora. It’s available for purchase in MP3 or WAV format to play on all your devices at Gumroad.com.

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I recently wrote an article for Worship Leader Magazine on what to practice before you lead worship called Preparing to Lead Worship as a Singer-Guitarist. It’s the first of four articles that will help guitarists effectively prepare for a worship event. Worship Leader Magazine is dedicated to equip worship pastors, musicians, songwriters, and ministry teams with theological depth, spiritual formation, and practical resources.

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Thank you for your continued encouragement, prayers, and support to keep this ministry vibrant and relevant.

Songs on the New Album

Songs on the album are All Hail the Power of Jesus Name, All Creatures of Our God and King, Crown Him with Many Crowns, Blessed Assurance, Great Is Thy Faithfulness, Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing, ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus, What a Friend We Have in Jesus, and Holy, Holy, Holy

Home Concert on Facebook Live

I hope you can join me for a live Home Concert this Sunday, October 4, at 5:00pm (PT), on Facebook Live. My stories and performance of these songs will be raw and down-to-earth. I’ll reveal more about the album and sing a few other significant songs to encourage you and lift your spirit.

Worship Leader Magazine Article

Worship Leader Magazine just published my article on what to practice before leading worship —Preparing to Lead Worship as a Singer-Guitarist. When you prioritize preparation, you create an environment where both you and your congregation can freely enjoy the presence of God.

Upcoming Events

Training & Teaching

Heartfelt Music Ministry is about Music, Leadership, and Training. In the May newsletter, I highlighted the “Leadership” aspect of what we do through mentoring worship leaders, guiding young people in faith and musicianship and leading congregations in authentic worship of God. In the June newsletter, I highlighted the “Music” aspect of what we do through concerts, albums, videos, sheet music and lessons. This month, I’m highlighting the “Training” aspects of what we do. There is definitely overlap with each area of Music, Leadership, and Training, but through it all we are focused, intentional, and working hard to equip musicians, inspire followers of Christ and glorify God in all we do.

The perfect snapshot to guide us in our ministry is King David’s organization of the Levites for musical service. 1 Chronicles 25:7 reads, “They were well-trained and skilled in music, all of them masters at their craft.” This is what we’re after. Heartfelt Music® Academy is another name for our training programs and resources. For 15 years, we produced the Christian Guitarist Conferences, training over 300 guitarists each year. Although we do not hold these conferences now, we have other methods to train and equip musicians to excel in their artistry. We emphasize Training & Teaching through videos, lessons, workshops, and an coming comprehensive guitar course. I am developing a number of video series/playlists on various essential topics.

• Music Theory Insights: There will be 35 short videos teaching how to read music mostly through the application called MusicTheory.net. The first 7 are available at this time.
• Worship Leading Insights: Prominent worship leaders give advice on leading worship. This is one blessing that came from the whole COVID experience. Examples of contributors are:
  • Bob Kauflin, author of the book Worship Matters.
  • Rory Noland, author of the book The Heart of the Artist.
  • Tom Kraeuter, author of the book The Worship Leader’s Handbook.
• Songwriting Insights: There are two videos available at this time with graduates from Valley Christian High School that are using songwriting as a primary part of their ministry.
  • Breanna Rhea, Worship Director with Echo Church.
  • JJ Heller, singer, songwriter, performing artist.
• Guitar Playing Insights: This coming series covers short “how-to” videos on fun techniques like slides and bends, fingerstyle and tapping, capos and looping, tuning the guitar and an explanation/demonstration of using various guitars (electric, acoustic, nylon-string, and 12-string).
• Highlighted Guitarist Insights: There will be 49 videos that track with my Complete Guitar Course. From Phil Keaggy to Jimi Hendrix, this series highlights 49 guitarists that have made a huge impact throughout the years. This will only be available through my Complete Guitar Course.

Two workshop training videos (Worship Band Training and Vocal Training) are available on my YouTube Channel.

Thank you for following Heartfelt Music® Ministry and keeping us in your prayers. God continues to do His amazing work in the lives of those we minister with.

Reading Music

No matter what your skill level is as a musician, it’s always an advantage to be able to read music and understand how scales and chords are constructed. This series called Music Theory Insights has short videos that clearly explain music notation and concepts using MusicTheory.net.

Dynamic Lessons

Watch this video, an example of my instruction on multiple guitar techniques with electric guitar. I’m teaching on Tuesdays late afternoon and evenings. If you would like to accelerate your learning and reach new heights in your music journey, contact me at [email protected]

Reggie’s Albums

These albums are available as physical CDs though our website, digital albums though Gumroad.com, or worldwide through streaming platforms such as Spotify, Pandora, iTunes, YouTube, etc). You can purchase them at Gumroad.com and help us create more music.

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

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

Cultivating commendable character and unwavering integrity isn’t just about personal virtue—it creates trust, mental stability, and sets a standard for those around us. Ultimately, these traits shape how we’re perceived, open doors to meaningful opportunities, and provide the internal coherence that allows us to navigate life with clarity. This isn’t an abstract ideal; it’s a practical roadmap for sustainable relationships and authentic influence.

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.

Follow on Social Media

A student asked me the other day, “I am so excited about playing guitar right now, but how do I keep this enthusiasm? Will I still be this excited in 15 years?” On the spot, I mentioned a few things I find compelling to encourage enthusiasm: Getting a new guitar or equipment (motivational); Watching a favorite guitar player (inspirational); Teaching someone else guitar (challenging). Yet reflecting on his question further, I find there are two character qualities that will help you stay committed to guitar (or anything) for the long haul: passion and tenacity.
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Passion

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 “suffer” or make sacrifices for it, and a deep, often unspoken, internal drive.

The true meaning of passion is a powerful, persistent, and intense emotional drive toward a self-defining activity (like playing guitar, singing, or songwriting) that is deeply aligned with your personal values. It is a strong inclination to invest time and energy into something you love, not for external rewards, but because the pursuit itself brings immense joy and fulfillment.
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Key Characteristics of Passion:

• Authentic Engagement: You are deeply involved and committed to the activity, not just passively interested.
• Commitment Through Difficulty: You are willing to persist through struggles, setbacks, and discomfort because the activity holds deep personal value.
• Investment of Time & Energy: You willingly invest significant time and energy into it, often losing track of time while doing it.
• Part of Your Identity: The activity becomes a self-defining trait; you are no longer just someone who does it, but a guitarist, a songwriter, a vocalist, etc.
• Internal Drive: Your motivation stems from an internal place, a desire to do the work itself rather than just for potential rewards or recognition.
• Focus on the Work Itself: Genuine passion is about the love for the process and the act of doing, not just the concept or the idea of success.
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Tenacity

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.

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Key Characteristics of Tenacity:

• Determination and persistence: A tenacious person shows persistent determination to achieve their goals, even when things get tough.
• Resilience: They are able to handle setbacks and don’t get easily discouraged by challenges.
• Strong resolve: They have a firm purpose and are unlikely to give up on their beliefs or objectives.
• Motivation: They are often self-motivated and focused on the long-term outcome.
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How to recognize if you have Passion & Tenacity:

• Look at actions, not just words: See if your behavior shows a willingness to push through difficulties for the thing you claim to be passionate about.
• Notice the details: You might pay attention to nuances others overlook in your chosen activity (guitar, songwriting, singing, etc.).
• Ask yourself if you’d do it for no reward: True passion & tenacity often show up even when there’s no immediate reward or appreciation from others.

Praying for You

It’s my prayer that you would experience the Lord directing your hearts into the love of God and the steadfastness of Christ. You can enjoy my song My Prayer for You on my YouTube channel by video or just audio. It’s the last song on my Intimacy Album (check out HearNow.com). Also, if you’re interested in learning the song on guitar, the music notation and guitar tab is available at Gumroad.com. Purchasing the physical album or digital album are also available. No matter what life throws at you, I hope you are encouraged and experience the joy of the Lord!

We are so grateful for your generosity!

We have received $390 through the Amplify the Sound of Hope fundraising opportunity. With this, we were able to purchase a year of MOOZ, which enables us to upgrade training musicians online (MOOZ is like ZOOM for musicians). We’ve already started it with new students and they love it. Mentoring students wonderfully enables us to spread hope. Since part of the funds we need to operate are from donations, we are not able to upgrade our website at this time. If you would like to help out financially with either a one time gift, monthly gift, or yearly gift, visit our Donation Page for more information. Thank you!

My Prayer for You Music Video

We need to have our hearts anchored in a way that gives us undeniable stability through it all. In 2 Thessalonians 3:5, Paul tells us that the two things that give our hearts a strong foundation are “the love of God” and “the steadfastness of Christ.” I was reading though the Bible and came across this verse and thought, “What a wonderful prayer for my family and friends.” Watch my backyard performance of My Prayer for You on my YouTube channel. Sherri has beautifully designed our backyard.

Reggie’s Complete Guitar Course

As I mentioned at the beginning of the summer, I’m creating a world class guitar training course, equipping people young and old with the tools to master guitar playing and dramatically impact contemporary culture for good. These dynamic lessons take guitarists from beginner to advanced. The 49 lessons are “spiral” in that they go in order and build on each other. They work best by taking them in order. Yet, you can start at any level and continue from there. It will take a few more months to complete.

Lesson Tips – Think About It

Take a look at some very helpful tips for students regarding Goals & Objectives, Discipline & Desire, and Practicing & Rehearsing. As you pursue guitar playing and look forward to getting better, it’s important to define goals and objectives. In order to keep your motivation and initiative thriving from lesson to lesson, it is essential to keep a balance between discipline and desire. Thinking about the frequency of your practicing is helpful to improve your skill.

Coming Events

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As you pursue guitar playing and look forward to getting better, it’s important to define goals and objectives. Here’s a closer look at what they are and how they can practically help you improve.

Goals are broad, long-term statements of what you intend to achieve, providing a general direction or vision, while objectives are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) actions taken to reach those goals. Objectives break down a larger goal into smaller, actionable steps, allowing for progress tracking and successful completion of the overall aim.

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Goals

• Broad and Visionary: Goals are like the destination on a map, outlining the ultimate aim without detailing the route.
• Long-Term: They represent a larger outcome or ideal that is often achieved over an extended period.
• Intangible and Abstract: Goals are often conceptual and can be more difficult to quantify directly.
• Focus on the “What”: They describe what you want to achieve.
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Objectives

• Specific and Measurable: Objectives are concrete targets that can be defined with numbers or clear, tangible indicators.
• Short-Term and Tactical: They are the specific, smaller steps that are completed within a shorter time frame.
• SMART: Effective objectives are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
• Focus on the How and When: They describe how you will achieve the goal and by when.

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How They Work Together

1. Set a Goal: Start with a broad, overarching goal.

2. Define Objectives: Break the goal into smaller, specific, and measurable objectives.

3. Track Progress: Use the objectives to track progress and make adjustments as needed.

4. Achieve the Goal: By accomplishing the individual objectives, you move closer to achieving the main goal.

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Example with Health

Goal:
– To improve your physical health.

Objectives:
– Exercise for 30 minutes every day for the next month.
– Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
– Drink 8 glasses of water per day.

Example with Guitar

Goal:
– To improve your ability to play chords.

Objectives:
– Practice chords for 20 minutes every day for the next month.
– Play through 4 different chord progressions while changing chords quickly.
– Learn at least 10 new chords a week.

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In order to keep your motivation and initiative thriving from lesson to lesson, it is essential to keep a balance between discipline and desire.  Discipline is the “I will” aspect of our commitment toward learning something.  Desire is the “I want” aspect of our commitment toward learning something.  Inspired to play guitar, we get the desire and say “I want to learn that cool instrument.”  Then we embark on a journey to learn the guitar and try to be disciplined saying, “I will do what it takes to get better on the instrument.”  You must have both of these to be effective in your training (I will and I want).  You can have the I want to play all day long, but without the I will, you will never actually learn to play.  You may have the I will, but without the I want, practicing gets dull and isn’t very fun.
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When you practice, remember why you started in the first place and get your desire ramped up.  Then let your discipline kick in and take the time necessary to make noticeable progress.  You will find more creativity and satisfaction in your playing as you keep both discipline and desire strong and in balance.