IND 4 9 FIN

Summary

The video highlights the journey of WR Supratman, the composer of Indonesia's national anthem, 'Indonesia Raya'. Born in 1903, Supratman grew up in a musically inclined family and was deeply involved in the national movement against Dutch colonialism. Despite initial struggles, he composed the anthem, which was first performed in 1928. The song quickly became popular in the nationalist movement but was banned by the Dutch due to its potential to inspire independence. Supratman faced persecution but continued his work until his early death in 1938. His legacy lives on as the composer of Indonesia’s anthem, and his birthdate is celebrated as National Music Day.

Takeaways

• 😀 WR Supratman is the composer of Indonesia's national anthem, 'Indonesia Raya'.
• 😀 WR Supratman was born on March 9, 1903, in Jakarta, to a family with a military background.
• 😀 Supratman’s passion for music began in his youth, influenced by his sister’s involvement in theater and music.
• 😀 He became politically active, working as a journalist and expressing his criticism of Dutch colonial rule.
• 😀 Supratman wrote a controversial book criticizing colonialism, which led to its ban by the Dutch authorities.
• 😀 Supratman’s growing love for Indonesia and desire to contribute to the country’s independence inspired him to create the anthem.
• 😀 In 1924, Supratman composed 'Indonesia Raya', which became a symbol of national pride and unity.
• 😀 The anthem was first performed during the second Youth Congress in 1928, captivating those in attendance.
• 😀 The song gained widespread popularity, but the Dutch authorities banned it in 1930, fearing its influence on the independence movement.
• 😀 Despite facing threats and imprisonment, Supratman continued to champion the anthem, which was eventually allowed under certain restrictions.

Q & A

Who is the composer of the Indonesian national anthem, Indonesia Raya?

The composer of Indonesia Raya is WR Supratman, an Indonesian patriot and musician.

What was WR Supratman's background before creating Indonesia Raya?

WR Supratman was born into a family with a musical background. His father was a sergeant, and his mother was named Siengai. He moved to Makassar and became involved in the music scene, particularly jazz, forming a jazz group called 'Black and Wirish'.

What inspired WR Supratman to compose Indonesia Raya?

WR Supratman was inspired by his strong sense of nationalism and a desire to contribute to Indonesia’s independence. After reading an article asking who could compose a national anthem for Indonesia, he felt compelled to create a song that could unite the people.

Why was WR Supratman initially hesitant to present Indonesia Raya?

WR Supratman was initially hesitant because he felt his political experience was insufficient, and he lacked the confidence to present the anthem at the time. However, he eventually performed it during the Second Youth Congress in 1928.

How was Indonesia Raya received after WR Supratman performed it?

After its performance at the Second Youth Congress in 1928, Indonesia Raya quickly became popular among the nationalist movement. It was frequently sung at political gatherings and became a symbol of Indonesian nationalism.

What action did the Dutch government take in response to the popularity of Indonesia Raya?

The Dutch government became worried that the song could inspire a movement for independence. As a result, they banned the song from being performed publicly in 1930, and WR Supratman faced threats and even imprisonment.

How did WR Supratman react to the ban on Indonesia Raya?

Despite the ban, WR Supratman continued to receive support from various groups, and the Dutch eventually lifted the ban, allowing the song to be sung in private settings. He also composed other songs like 'Matahari Terbit', which further contributed to his popularity.

What was WR Supratman’s fate after the events surrounding Indonesia Raya?

After the struggles with the Dutch authorities, WR Supratman’s health deteriorated, and he passed away on August 17, 1938, at the age of 35. His legacy, however, remained strong due to his contribution to Indonesia's national identity.

What national recognition did WR Supratman receive posthumously?

WR Supratman was posthumously honored by Indonesia, with his birthday on March 9th being declared National Music Day starting in 2013. He is celebrated as a key figure in Indonesia’s history for composing the national anthem.

How is Indonesia Raya regarded today in Indonesia?

Indonesia Raya is not only the national anthem of Indonesia but also a symbol of the nation’s struggle for independence and unity. It remains a powerful reminder of the country’s journey toward freedom.