Mehter Vuruyor - 20th Century Turkish Military Music
"Mehter Vuruyor" (The Mehter is playing) is a composition marked by historical resonance and cultural significance. Its composer remains unknown, adding an air of mystery to its origins. The lyrics, penned by M. Faruk Gürtunca, are absent, allowing the instrumental arrangement to convey its message. Set in the Suzinak makam and following the Sofyan usul, this composition belongs to the traditional Ottoman military music tradition, known as Mehter. Through its melodies and rhythms, it evokes a sense of tradition, stirring memories of times past and honoring the rich heritage of the Ottoman Empire.
Mehmet Faruk Gürtunca (1904, Edirne - August 5, 1982) was a Turkish educator, journalist, and politician. He graduated from the Edirne Teachers College and held various teaching positions in Istanbul. He served as a Turkish language teacher at Galatasaray High School's primary and secondary sections. Gürtunca was also a prolific writer, contributing to several magazines and newspapers. Additionally, he held ownership and editorial positions in various newspapers and printing establishments. Gürtunca was involved in several organizations, including serving as the President of the Turkish Press Association and the Turkish Educational Association Islamic Branch. He was elected as a member of the Turkish Parliament (TBMM) representing Istanbul during the XI. Legislative Term. Gürtunca was married and had three children.
Turkish Lyrics
Mehter vuruyor, tarihin aksetmede yadı,
Andık yine Fatih'le, Süleyman'ı, Murad'ı.
Kös sesleri sarsın bütün İstanbul'u yer yer,
Geçsin önümüzden koca gazi ve şehitler.
Türk ordusunun şan dolu bir satvetidir bu,
Fethin, Mohaç'ın, Niğbolu'nun haşmetidir bu.
Mehter bize bir ruh veriyor ta nerelerden,
Meriç'lerle, Çanakkale, Yemenden, Kore'lerden.
English Translation
The Mehter is playing, reminding us of history's echoing memory,
Once again, we recall Fatih, Süleyman, and Murad.
Let the sound of drums shake all of Istanbul intermittently,
Let the great veterans and martyrs pass before us.
This is the glorious dignity of the Turkish army,
This is the magnificence of conquests like Mohács and Niğbolu.
The Mehter infuses us with a spirit from distant places,
From the Meriç River to Çanakkale, Yemen, and Korea.