strike up

verb

1. (of a band, orchestra, etc) to begin to play or sing
2. tr to bring about; cause to begin

   to strike up a friendship

3. tr to emboss (patterns, etc) on (metal)

Example Sentences

The brass band strikes up Ode to the Motherland as young children, kept up late for the occasion, their cheeks adorned with the Chinese flag, all shout in full song.

From BBC

And, as the music strikes up nearby, she urges Americans to visit and experience China.

From BBC

In suburban Britain, the career and family of a well-liked schoolteacher threaten to unravel when she strikes up an inappropriate relationship with one of her students.

From Los Angeles Times

Pretending to be a 15-year-old American internet star, Rasheed would strike up a conversation with his targets, before involving them in discussions about sexual fantasies.

From BBC

Wright, a blond man in a baseball cap shuffled into the gallery, taking a seat among a group of reporters before striking up conversation.

From New York Times