🔗 Share this article

At the age of 10, I read about a feature in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My family had participated at the very first contest back in 1996 – mom distributed flyers, my dad managed the music. Ever since, domestic competitions have been held all across the world, with the winners converging in Oulu annually.

Initially, I requested permission if I could compete. They weren't sure at first; the show was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was resolved.

During childhood, I was always performing air guitar, acting out to the most popular rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My parents were enthusiasts – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the guitar hero, was my hero.

When I stepped on stage, I performed my act to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started yelling “Angus”, reminiscent of the album track, and it hit me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, playing to a large audience in the town square, and I was captivated. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a judge one year, and opened for the show another time, but I didn't participate. I went back at 18, tested out several stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and adopt “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve reached the finals each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was resolved to claim victory this year.

Our global network is like a family. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a real philosophy.

The event is intense but joyful. Contestants have one minute to put their all – explosive energy, precise mimicry, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. The panel rate you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “air-off” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you create on the spot.

Getting ready is key. I picked an Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I had it on repeat for multiple weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs flexible enough to leap, my fingers fast enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine ready for those moves and leaps. Once competition day came, I could feel the song in my being.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an final showdown. We went head-to-head to that classic rock anthem by the rock group. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so thrilled to play again. Once the results were read I’d won, the square exploded.

My memory is blurry. I think I lost consciousness from shock. Then everyone started chanting the song Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their shoulders. One of the greats – also known as his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my best pals, was holding me. I wept. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar world champion in two and a half decades. The prior titleholder, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our guiding saying is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a real philosophy. People come from all over the world, and each person is positive and uplifting. Prior to performing, every competitor shows support. Then for one minute you’re free to be free, humorous, the biggest rock star in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and guitarist in a musical act with my family member called the band name, named after Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by British music genres. I’ve been serving drinks for a few years now, and I create mini movies and song visuals. The title hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I wish it results in more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are great prospects.

At present, I’m just thankful: for the community, for the ability to compete, and for that budding enthusiast who found a story and thought, “I'd love to try that.”