Charles Novell School of Music

08/21/2026

BEHIND THE MICROPHONE:
It's FAN FRIDAY! Get to know the members of the GCSGMA!
This week we feature, Rob Novell from the Charles Novell School of Music.

How long have you been singing Southern Gospel music?
Rob: 56 years. Been involved my entire life.

What is one Southern Gospel song that has had a lasting impact on your life?
Rob: The Eastern Gate

If you could sing with any Southern Gospel artist or group—past or present—who would it be?
Rob: I’d definitely revisit my time on the road with Perfect Heart. Absolutely some of the best years in my ministry.

Outside of music, what is something people might be surprised to learn about you?
Rob: I’ve never eaten an egg.

What Bible verse has encouraged you the most in your ministry?
Rob: Isaiah 1:19

What would you like to say to those who support Southern Gospel music?
Rob: Thank you for helping us keep this great music moving forward.

08/15/2026

The Charles Novell School of Music is excited to announce that registration is now open for CNS27, which will be held June 20-26, 2027, at Bethel University in McKenzie, TN. For over six decades, CNS has been a beacon for aspiring singers, musicians, and songwriters, guiding them to achieve their musical aspirations. This year, participants can delve into a variety of disciplines including voice, piano, guitar, bass guitar, drums, songwriting, performance, sound, technology, ministry, and social media. Our assembled staff, who are leaders in the Christian Music industry, are eager to inspire and propel you toward your goals. If you're ready to elevate your talents and connect with a vibrant community, CNS27 is your perfect opportunity. Join us and take the next step in your musical journey!

Registration is open at…
⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️
www.cnsmusic.com

08/03/2026

It's Music Monday!!! What hymn inspires YOUR worship??

07/17/2026

🎶✍️ Could your song be the next Southern Gospel favorite?

The search is on for Southern Gospel's next great songwriter, and there's still time to enter the 2026 Singing News Songwriters Search!

If you're a non-professional songwriter, this is your opportunity to have your original song heard and compete for incredible prizes, including:

🏆 A publishing contract with Daywind Publishing
🎵 One-on-one mentoring with Dave Clark
🎓 A scholarship to the Charles Novell School of Music
📰 National recognition in Singing News Magazine and more!

⭐ Past Songwriters Search winning songs have gone on to win Dove Awards!

💰 Save with Early Bird pricing through August 1 — just $48!
📅 Final entry deadline: October 31, 2026

Don't let your song stay in a notebook. Share it with the Southern Gospel community!

👉 Learn more and enter today: SingingNews.com/songwriter

07/15/2026

Excited about this year’s class for the SGMA Hall of Fame.

Watch the SGMA Hall of Fame Class of 2026—FREE on Singing News TV!

Join Singing News TV for a special presentation celebrating the Southern Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame Class of 2026 with Clarke Beasley, Conrad Cook, Phil Cross & Clayton Inman.

This inspiring program will honor the newest inductees and celebrate their lasting contributions to Southern Gospel music.

The special premieres Tuesday, July 28, at 7:00 PM Eastern and will be available FREE for everyone to watch.

07/14/2026

So we have this Banana thing at CNS. ( IYKYK ). We ramped things up this year and the Top 3, Top Bananas received some special hardware. That would be Barb Novell, Jenny Novell, and Billy Blackwood. I received the last photo from Billy after he got home and it seems he understands value and priority in his placement of his newest award!! 😂🍌

07/01/2026

The Charles Novell School of Music’s CNS26 took place June 21-27 at Bethel University in McKenzie, TN. Our theme for CNS26 was “Forward” and God did just that in our lives, music, and our ministries. He moved us all “Forward”. There’s just something about being in an environment where everyone is going after the same thing to bring about unity. Many different backgrounds, cultures, denominations, musical genre influences, but all worshiping the same GOD!! We had an incredible lineup of staff and guests that were willing to invest into our students. Evening concerts that were anointed worship services. And a great group of students that showed up ready for God to speak to them. Plans are underway for CNS27. Dates will be released shortly and registration will open in August.
Make plans now to attend CNS27!
www.cnsmusic.com