String Thing

String Thing

String Thing is a Hamburg-based group active since 1989. It is a string quartet made up of Nicola Kruse on violin and composition, Ingmar Meissner on violin and composition, Gunther Tiedemann on cello and composition, and Jens Piezunka on bass and composition.

The group develops a style rooted in jazz and the classical string quartet tradition. Its music combines improvisation and composition, bringing together the energy of jazz with the colours of classical music. It also draws on musical cultures and eras from different periods, creating string-based sounds that move between familiar and unfamiliar forms.

String Thing performs in both classical and jazz contexts. It appears at classical music festivals as well as jazz festivals, and it is noted for a repertoire that connects chamber music, composition and jazz. The group has received several prizes for its work in those areas.

Its performances emphasise interaction, rhythm and improvisation, with a sound described as lively, nuanced and accessible. The quartet presents itself as a bridge between musical worlds, using acoustic string writing that combines instrumental skill with composition and spontaneous ensemble playing.