Zubir Said
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Zubir Said (also Zubir Syed) (22 July 1907–16 November 1987) was a film composer who composed the national anthem of Singapore, Majulah Singapura. He is believed to have written about 1,000 songs.
[edit] Biography
Zubir Said was born in West Sumatra, Indonesia. Zubir Said attended a Dutch school but had no interest in the academic studies. His music started when he was introduced to the Solfa music system. A classmate subsequently taught him how to play and make a flute, and in middle school, he learnt guitar and drums.
After he recovered from his sickness, he took up his friend's suggestion to go to Singapore to make a living as a musician. In Singapore, he was exposed to many types of music.
In the late 1950s, the commissioning of Majulah Singapura took place. Zubir Said's song was accepted and the song was sung at the grand finale of the concert after the renovated Victoria Theatre on 6 September 1958.
When Singapore had attained self-government in 1959, the Government had to establish symbols of loyalty for Singapore. After alterations were made to the song, it was accepted by the Legislative Assembly on 11 November 1959 and was presented to the nation on 3 December to the public at the launch of loyalty week.
He continued working in Cathay Keris Film Productions until 1964 when he retired. He had since been conferred the Sijil Kemuliaan (Certificate of Honour) in 1963, recognising his contributions to the state. Among other awards, he also received the Asean Cultural and Communications Award in 1987.
Zubir Said died at the age of 80 in 1987 at Joo Chiat Place, Singapore.
[edit] Works
He is primarily remembered for composing the national anthem of Singapore, Majulah Singapura, or Onward Singapore. The song unites all the races of Singapore to sing to this stirring tune with simple lyrics, together.
He had also submitted compositions to the Malayan - later Malaysia - government for consideration for their National Anthem in 1956, although Negaraku was accepted in the end.
He is also remembered for his composition, Semoga Bahagia, aimed at primary school students. It has become a Children's Day song for Singaporean children, and for the Singapore Youth Festival, advising children to work hard for their future.
