Abstract: A self-contained pneumatic starting system and method for initiating starting of a gas turbine machine includes a reservoir of pressurized gas which delivers motive gas flow to an expansion type pneumatic motor directly coupled to the compressor of the gas turbine machine for initiating rotation of the compressor during start up. Upon reaching self-sustaining speeds, the compressor delivers a flow of pressurized gas to replenish the reservoir for subsequent starting operation. A pressure amplifier increases the pressure of the recharging gas being supplied to the reservoir. Embodiments for driving the pressure amplifier both hydraulically and pneumatically are disclosed.