🔗 Share this article

At the age of 10, I discovered a article in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, held annually every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My parents had participated at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – mom handed out flyers, my dad organized the music. Ever since, national championships have been held in many nations, with the titleholders assembling in Oulu each August.

At the time, I asked my parents if I could compete. Initially they had doubts; the show was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They believed it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always “playing” air guitar, acting out to the iconic rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My family were music fans – my father loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the original act I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my idol.

When I stepped on stage, I performed my act to AC/DC’s that classic track. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, reminiscent of the live recording, and it hit me: this must be to be a rock star. I reached the championship, performing to hundreds of people in Oulu’s market square, and I was captivated. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a referee one year, and opened for the show once more, but I stayed out of the contest. I went back at 18, tested out several stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I embraced it and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve reached the finals each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was resolved to claim victory this year.

The worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. It may seem funny, but it’s a real philosophy.

The event is intense but joyful. Competitors have one minute to give everything – explosive energy, precise mimicry, rock star charisma – on an invisible guitar. The panel score you on a point range from four to six. In the case of a tie, there’s an “air-off” between the final two contestants: a track is selected 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 a long time. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs prepared enough to leap, my fingers quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine set for those moves and leaps. When the big day dawned, I could internalize the track in my soul.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had matched with the titleholder from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was moment for an final showdown. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the rock group. As the music started, I felt comforted because it was familiar to me, and primarily I was so excited to have another go. When they announced I’d triumphed, the venue went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I blacked out from the excitement. Then all present started performing Neil Young’s Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – also known as Nordic Thunder – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I wept. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was also present. He gave me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.

The air guitar community is like a support system. Our guiding saying is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a true way of life. People come from globally, and everyone is helpful and motivating. Prior to performing, every competitor comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re free to be free, playful, the top performer in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and guitarist in a band with my brother called the band name, named after the sports figure, as we’re influenced by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I create mini movies and song visuals. Winning hasn’t altered my routine drastically but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I hope it brings more artistic projects. My hometown will be a cultural hub next year, so there are exciting things ahead.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the community, for the chance to perform, and for that budding enthusiast who found a story and thought, “That's for me.”