I just got word that the Ottoman Mehter Military Band will be in town tomorrow, with a parade starting at E. 9th and Lakeside at 11:30 AM, ending with a concert at the War Memorial on the Mall.

The Ottoman tradition of military bands stretches back more than 700 years and consisted of Janniseries. Of course, since there is no more Ottoman empire, there is no associated military band per se. But the tradition was brought back some time in the mid 20th century for nostalgia’s sake.

Thanks to my friend Walt (of the band Harmonia) for the tip.