Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

November 4, 1847 in Beaver County, PA

Death

:

September 20, 1909 in New York, NY

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Will Lamartine Thompson was a renowned American composer of hymns and gospel songs. He was born on November 7, 1847, in East Liverpool, Ohio, to a family of musicians. His father, Josiah Thompson, was a music teacher, and his mother, Mary Lamartine Thompson, was a singer and pianist. Will was the youngest of their six children. Will showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. He was a quick learner and soon began composing his own music. His father recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Will attended the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, where he studied under the renowned composer George Root. After completing his studies, Will returned to Ohio and began teaching music. He also began composing hymns and gospel songs, which quickly gained popularity in the local churches. In 1874, he moved to Chicago, where he continued to compose and teach music. One of Will's most famous compositions is the hymn "Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling." He wrote the song in 1880, and it quickly became a favorite in churches across the country. The song's simple melody and heartfelt lyrics touched the hearts of many, and it remains a beloved hymn to this day. Another of Will's popular hymns is "There's a Great Day Coming." He wrote the song in 1894, and it quickly became a favorite in the revival meetings that were popular at the time. The song's upbeat tempo and optimistic lyrics inspired many to rededicate their lives to Christ. Will also wrote several gospel songs that were popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. One of his most famous gospel songs is "Jesus is All the World to Me." He wrote the song in 1904, and it quickly became a favorite in churches and revival meetings across the country. The song's simple melody and powerful message of faith and devotion continue to inspire Christians today. In addition to his work as a composer, Will was also a successful music publisher. He founded the Will L. Thompson & Co. music publishing company in 1879, which became one of the leading publishers of hymns and gospel songs in the country. The company published many of Will's own compositions, as well as those of other popular composers of the time. Will continued to compose and publish music throughout his life, and his contributions to the world of hymns and gospel songs are still celebrated today. He died on September 20, 1909, in East Liverpool, Ohio, at the age of 61. His legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire and uplift people of all ages and backgrounds.

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