In a stirring gathering that blended Ottoman heritage with living Sufi presence, the authentic imperial mehter ensemble founded by Ayberk Efendi resonated through our hall as Şeyh Nazım Hz. sat in quiet contemplation. The deep drums and soaring zurna melodies—hallmarks of the centuries‑old Janissary tradition—filled the space, reminding us that the rhythm of the past continues to pulse within today’s spiritual community.
The Sound of the Imperial Band
Ayberk Efendi has devoted years to reconstituting a true Ottoman saltanat mehter team, sourcing period‑accurate instruments and training musicians in the ceremonial repertoire once heard on battlefields and royal courts. In this half‑video glimpse, the band executes the “Mehter Marşı” with disciplined precision: the kös (large kettle drums) lay down a steady heartbeat, while the nakare (small kettles) interlace intricate counter‑rhythms. The bright call of the zurna, supported by the somber drone of the boru, creates an auditory tapestry that lifts the listeners’ hearts toward the divine.
As the music swelled, Şeyh Nazım Hz., a revered guide in our Sufi lineage, maintained a poised silence, his presence grounding the performance. For those familiar with the Ottoman spiritual tradition, this moment echoed the historic practice of invoking the Divine through sound—where the rhythmic cadence serves as a form of zikr, aligning the inner self with the cosmic order.
We invite all members and seekers to experience such living heritage in person. Become part of our community to join future gatherings, support the preservation of Ottoman musical arts, and deepen your own spiritual practice.
