🔗 Share this article

Back when I was 10, I discovered a story in my community gazette about the Air Guitar World Championships, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had helped out at the pioneering contest starting from 1996 – my mum distributed flyers, my father sorted the music. Since then, national championships have been organized globally, with the winners assembling in Oulu annually.

Initially, I asked my parents if I could participate. Initially they had doubts; the show was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They thought it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was determined.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My family were enthusiasts – dad loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the original act 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 that classic track. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, reminiscent of the album track, and it struck me: this is what it feels like to be a rock star. I reached the championship, performing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was addicted. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show on another occasion, but I didn't participate. I came back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve qualified for the last round annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I came second, so I was resolved to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our guiding principle is ‘Create music, not conflict’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a real philosophy.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have 60 seconds to deliver maximum effort – explosive energy, flawless imitation, stage magnetism – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators evaluate you on a grading system from four to six. In the case of a tie, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you create on the spot.

Getting ready is key. I chose an Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I had it on repeat for weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my legs loose enough to leap, my digits fast enough to copy riffs and my spine prepared for those moves and leaps. When the event dawned, I could feel the song in my bones.

When the show concluded, the scores came in, and I had drawn with the titleholder from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was time for an air-off. We went head-to-head to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the rock group. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was a tune I recognized, and above all I was so eager to have another go. As they declared I’d emerged victorious, the venue erupted.

The moment is hazy. I think I blacked out from shock. Then the crowd started performing the song Rockin’ in the Free World and lifted me on to their backs. Justin Howard – also known as Nordic Thunder – a past winner and one of my best pals, was holding me. I shed tears. I was the first Finnish air guitar global winner in two and a half decades. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was there, too. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our motto is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief. Participants come from all over the world, and everyone is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be yourself, playful, the biggest rock star in the world.

Besides that, I'm a drummer and guitarist in a musical act with my brother called the band name, referencing the football manager, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I produce independent videos and performance clips. Winning hasn’t affected my daily activities too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it leads to more creative work. My hometown will be a cultural hub the coming year, so there are exciting things ahead.

Currently, I’m just grateful: for the network, for the chance to perform, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “I'd love to try that.”