The Pera-Ensemble, named after a district of Istanbul, where people from different origins, races, religions and cultures are meeting since the antiquity, was established in 2005 by the Istanbul-born musicians Mehmet Cemal Yesilcay and Ihsan Özer.
On stage, Pera combines the musical traditions of the Ottoman’s music vowels and instrumental virtuosity together with the historical and contemporary European music; whereby the musical functioning is based on musicological and historical research.

Through the ambitions of the conductor Mehmet C. Yesilcay, the group strikes new musical paths and opens new possibilities and prospects, which were unknown heretofore.
Hence, the ensemble is addicted to perform so far unknown or reconstructed versions of old works. Above all, rare performed repertoire stands in the interests of the musical work of the group. As „seekers“ in this field of music, Pera brings up works of music, which were wrongfully passed out of mind and wants to reintroduce them to the public at large. Profound researches and vivid, fresh music making indicates the work of the ensemble.

At the centre of attentions stands the exchange with classical, European music. Similarities and differences should be shown, as well as news sounds should be created through musical symbiosis: „Music without borders“, but without losing its own identity.
All members of the group distinguish themselves through a lot of international performances and teaching.

The Pera-Ensemble works closely together with L’arte del mondo. Several concerts with the programs „La Fete du Serail“, „1 God“ and the pastiche „Armida“ deepen the collaboration of the two ensembles.
This multifarious group, whose size and constitution can be adapted according to the program, is casted with masters of their trades.