I Became the Air Guitar International Titleholder

When I was just 10, I discovered a article in my local paper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, held annually every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the very first contest back in 1996 – mom distributed flyers, my dad managed the music. Ever since, country-level contests have been held in many nations, with the champions converging in Oulu annually.

Back then, I requested permission if I could enter. They weren't sure at first; the event was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They thought it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was set on it.

In my youth, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. Mom and Dad were music fans – my father loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the original act I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the frontman guitarist, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to AC/DC’s that classic track. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, reminiscent of the concert version, and it struck me: this is what it feels like to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, competing to crowds in the town square, and I was addicted. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I didn't participate. I came back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and make “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve reached the finals every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a family. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a real philosophy.

The contest is high-energy yet fun. Participants have 60 seconds to give everything – explosive energy, flawless imitation, stage magnetism – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators score you on a grading system from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I selected an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I had it on repeat for a long time. I stretched constantly, trying to get my limbs flexible enough to leap, my hands quick enough to copy riffs and my back ready for those moves and leaps. When competition day came, I could feel the song in my being.

After everyone had performed, the results were tallied, and I had drawn with the winner from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an air-off. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses. When I heard the song, I felt relieved because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so excited to have another go. When they announced I’d won, the area erupted.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I blacked out from shock. Then the crowd started performing Neil Young’s Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their arms. A former champion – AKA Nordic Thunder – a past winner and one of my dear companions, was hugging me. I cried. I was Finland’s first air guitar global winner in two and a half decades. The previous Finnish champion, the former champion, was there, too. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our guiding saying is “Create music, not conflict”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a genuine belief. People come from globally, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. Before you go on stage, each contestant offers an embrace. Then for a brief period you’re able to be uninhibited, silly, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and string player in a musical act with my brother called the band name, inspired by Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been working in bars for a couple of years, and I produce independent videos and music videos. Winning hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I aspire it leads to more innovative opportunities. The city will be a cultural hub next year, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just thankful: for the group, for the ability to compete, and for that little kid who read an article and thought, “I want to do that.”