1An alternative string band is one that involves instruments such as violins, cellos and a string base among others. Bands were required to be made up of at least 50 percent string instruments, and they also were required to play to non-traditional tunes. Bands came from Hays, Hutchinson, Dodge City, Wichita and Parker.

The event also invited third-graders from O'Loughlin Elementary School in Hays

"Orchestra programs start in the fourth grade, and we wanted to invite the kids to see what these instruments could do," said Cathy Drabkin, director of WKSA.

Drabkin sent out flyers to music stores and schools throughout the state. Nine audition tapes were sent in, and a final six groups were chosen to compete.

"We wanted to portray a garage band concept," Drabkin said, "to showcase string players, and allow them to play any style they wanted."

For some beginning string players, it might seem as if only classical music can be played on the instruments.

"Kids want to play music that their peers like, not in a formal setting," Drabkin said.

The academy has been experimenting with ideas for several years, trying to find a way of immersing string players into popular culture. It was the presence of the musical group Barrage, a popular alternative string band, that inspired the competition. Barrage was scheduled to play as part of the Encore series at FHSU.

"I heard that they performed workshops with local groups," Drabkin said. "And we just thought this was a great opportunity for these kids."

The workshop was conducted by members of Barrage, who worked with all of the students and even played a song with them. The workshop was sponsored in part by the Mid-America Arts Alliance, which supports and stimulates cultural activities in the Midwest.

Yamaha, a company that makes many musical instruments, jumped at the chance to help out.

"They had never heard of anything like this and were happy to help out," Drabkin said.

Yamaha donated a new electric violin, which was drawn as a prize and donated to the winning school's music program.

Some performers only implemented string instruments, such as the violin or cello.

But others incorporated electric guitars and even drums. Two groups from Hays placed second and third in the competition. Second place, Stihl Wool, received a $150 prize, and third place, Odyssey, received $100.

Hours of practice and rehearsal took place in preparation for the contest. For one group, it was a sudden decision to compete.

"I've been playing for about five years, and we only found out about the event two months before. So this was a last-minute decision," said Blaine Dunlop, member of the BAC Trio.

The BAC Trio won a first prize of $250 and was given the honor of being the opening band for Barrage. Dunlop, a 15-year-old sophomore, started the group with his 12-year-old brother, August Dunlop, and their friend, Curtis EuDaly, who also is 15.

All members are home-schooled in the small town located south of Lawerence. The oldest Dunlop travels to Lawerence to the University of Kansas, where he takes string lessons. He then returns to his hometown, where he teaches others who want to learn how to play a stringed instrument.

"I really enjoy sharing the music with others," Dunlop said.

The band Barrage was a big inspiration to the trio.

"I love their freedom of movement," EuDaly said. "And they bring such energy and style to their shows."

For the judges of the competition, it was a new experience.

"This has truly been a great experience," said Mary Ridgeway, president of the Hays Symphony Guild. "It was really the coolest thing ever."