27th Annual Student Research Conference
The Integration and Influences of Military and Music in the Ottoman Empire
Kenna J. Bogue
Prof. Patricia Mickey, Faculty Mentor
The Ottoman Empire ruled and spread its influence throughout the world for more than half a millenium and their powerful military was a crucial factor in their successful conquests and lifespan. It is interesting, therefore, that one of the most important elements of their military was a non-fighting faction: the mehter, or the military band of the Janissaries, an elite fighting force. The social importance of the mehter to the Ottoman Empire were achieved through the strategic military and psychological impact of the band, iconic representation and thorough integration into Ottoman culture, their influential musical characteristics and instruments incorporated in Western compositions, and the tradition that it has thus carried throughout history. The most important lesson that can be learned from the music of the Janissaries is the importance of music's social role in providing a sense of identity to a nation and influencing generations to come.
Keywords: Music, Ottoman, Military, Mehter, Janissary, Band
Topic(s):Music
History
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 210-4
Location: OP 2117
Time: 10:15