Our story began in the Royal Theatre Carre in Amsterdam on May 28, 2011. An invitation from the amazing Sandra St. Victor (The Family Stand) to perform in a Tribute concert for the one and only Bill Withers (“Ain’t no sunshine”, “Lean on me”, “Just the two of us”) created the opportunity for Asia Czaj to bring together some of the best string players in the country and form a new string ensemble. 

With Bill Withers himself as a guest of honour The Magic Strings had the privilege to perform with Trijntje Oosterhuis, Ruben Hein, Boris, Sabrina Starke, Michelle David, Benjamin Herman, Kori Withers and Sandra St. Victor. It was an unforgettable event!

When it came time to find a name for our new ensemble, we took inspiration from our Magic Lady’, Sandra St. Victor. She is the one who has kept everything together, managing logistics, the artist line-up, setlist, arrangements, scores, mails, and bills like a superhero. She has an incredible gift to connect us, musicians from around the world, to become a great musical family within a very short time. 

Under her wings, we became The Magic Strings and Bill loved it. He told us that we sounded like one. With memories of this amazing meeting and remembering the pride that we had to play for him, we have kept the name until this day, when our Magic story is still continuing. 

Since 2011 we have collaborated with many amazing artists, have made studio recordings and have performed on stages from small to massive.

From a string trio to a 15-piece string orchestra we have performed and recorded with Edsilia Rombley, Shirma Rouse, Sabrina Stark, Racoon, Berget Lewis, Rondé, Skin (Skunk Anansie), and many more. The journey continues! 

In 2018 our amazing journey with The Ladies of Soul started. In September 2020 we made our debut with Edsilia Rombley in Het Concertgebouw in Amsterdam and performed 4 shows.

Sadly, in March 2020 Bill Withers passed away. The memories of Bill Withers will stay forever in our hearts and we will continue to honour him with our music.