We are 88 Strings, a Canadian quartet that mixes traditional Chinese, Persian and Western plucked instruments, presenting new musical inventions and adventures written or arranged for us. Established in 2020, an audience member at our first concert described us as "plucked string heaven." Our unique sound blends classical and world music together in an enveloping and often hypnotic music.

We want to commission the great Canadian composer Michael Oesterle to write a new composition for us of about 8 minutes duration. Listen to his beautiful 2025 piece called The Violin in My Life

Michael is a celebrated composer whose many works demonstrate a love of ancient and world musical ideas, which he skillfully renews and reinvigorates with a contemporary, original imagination. He evokes music of the past without ever quoting it or imitating the styles. He has a unique voice. He has written for all of our instruments in the past, except the Chinese guzheng, which we are confident he will study and create idiomatic music. We are very eager to work with Michael.

Michael will begin working on the music in the fall once we have secured funding to pay his fee. 88 Strings will perform the new composition at several concerts in 2027 in the Metro Vancouver area and beyond.

You can listen to Michael's great music on his soundcloud page: https://soundcloud.com/user-157990494/sets/compositions

Visit the 88 Strings web site here: https://88strings.ca

Lastly, we will acknowledge your support in our concert programs (with your name, or "anonymous" – your choice), and we'll let all supporters know the date and location of the world premiere performance and any subsequent performances.

Thanks for visiting and for your support!