Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1833

Death

:

1896

Genre

:

Vocal

 

William G. Tomer was an American composer and hymn writer who is best known for his composition of the hymn tune "God Be With You Till We Meet Again." He was born on October 10, 1833, in New York City, to parents who were both musicians. His father, George Tomer, was a violinist and his mother, Mary Tomer, was a singer. Tomer showed an early interest in music and began studying the piano and organ at a young age. He also showed a talent for composition and began writing his own music while still in his teens. In 1853, he moved to Chicago, where he worked as a music teacher and organist. In 1862, Tomer enlisted in the Union Army during the Civil War and served as a musician in the 8th Illinois Cavalry. He continued to compose music during his time in the army and wrote several patriotic songs, including "The Union Forever" and "The Flag of Our Union." After the war, Tomer returned to Chicago and resumed his career as a music teacher and organist. He also began writing hymns and became a prolific hymn writer, composing over 100 hymns during his lifetime. His most famous hymn, "God Be With You Till We Meet Again," was written in 1880 and has since become a beloved hymn in many Christian denominations. Tomer's other notable hymns include "I Am Coming to the Cross," "The Comforter Has Come," and "The Way of the Cross Leads Home." His hymns were known for their simple melodies and heartfelt lyrics, which often focused on themes of faith, hope, and salvation. In addition to his work as a composer and hymn writer, Tomer was also a respected music educator. He taught at several schools and colleges throughout his career, including the Chicago Conservatory of Music and the Moody Bible Institute. Tomer died on August 26, 1896, in Chicago, at the age of 62. His legacy as a composer and hymn writer lives on through his music, which continues to be sung and played in churches and other settings around the world.

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