Strike Up Meaning

(intransitive, idiomatic) To start something, usually playing live music.

Example:   To make him feel welcome, she struck up a conversation with the newly arrived guest.
  He struck up a friendship with Redford that was to last for many years.
  The band struck up and everyone started to dance.
  (ergative)The bride entered the church just as the "Wedding March" struck up.
To raise (as sheet metal), in making dishes, pans, etc., by blows or pressure in a die.