2009 -
A Mehter is a historical Ottoman Janissary band. It is the oldest variety of a military marching band.
The Mehteran's unique sound exercised an influence on European classical music. Various compositions of Haydin, Mozart and Beethoven reveled inspirations that mimicked the music of the Mehters.
This Mehter is called Mehteran-ı Osmani. The band tours internationally.
My brother, Ercan, is a performing member of this Mehter. He plays and is pictured with the kös, a large bass drum.