🔗 Share this article

At the age of 10, I read about a story in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My parents had volunteered at the pioneering contest since 1996 – my mother distributed flyers, my father organized the music. Ever since, country-level contests have been organized globally, with the titleholders converging in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I requested permission 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 daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, acting out to the iconic rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My parents were enthusiasts – my dad loved Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the original act I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, just like the concert version, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, performing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was captivated. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a referee one year, and started the show on another occasion, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, tried a few different stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and choose “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve qualified for the last round each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to claim victory this year.

Our global network is like a family. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief.

The event is intense but joyful. Competitors have 60 seconds to put their all – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, rock star charisma – on an imaginary instrument. Judges score you on a grading system from a specific numeric range. In the case of a tie, there’s an “air-off” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I chose an a metal group song for my performance. I listened to it on a loop for multiple weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my limbs flexible enough to bound, my fingers nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine set for those bends and jumps. Once the big day arrived, I could sense the music in my soul.

Once all acts were done, the results were tallied, and I had tied with the Japanese champion, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an final showdown. We faced off to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the rock group. Once the track began, I felt at ease because it was a tune I recognized, and primarily I was so thrilled to play again. Once the results were read I’d triumphed, the venue went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then all present started performing the classic tune that well-known track and lifted me on to their arms. A former champion – alias his stage name – a former champion and one of my best pals, was holding me. I shed tears. I was Finland’s first air guitar global winner in a quarter-century. The prior titleholder, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was in attendance as well. He offered me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Competitors come from globally, and each person is positive and uplifting. Before you go on stage, every competitor comes and hugs you. Then for one minute you’re free to be yourself, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and string player in a musical act with my brother called the Southgates, named after the football manager, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I produce short films and music videos. Winning hasn’t changed my day-to-day life too much but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I hope it leads to more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a cultural hub soon, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just appreciative: for the community, for the ability to compete, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”