🔗 Share this article

When I was just 10, I came across a feature in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had participated at the inaugural contest starting from 1996 – mom gave out flyers, dad organized the music. Since then, country-level contests have been held in many nations, with the winners converging in Oulu each August.

Initially, I requested permission if I could compete. Initially they had doubts; the event was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was set on it.

In my youth, I was always miming air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My family were enthusiasts – my dad loved Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the original act I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my inspiration.

As I took the stage, I played my set to the band's that classic track. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, just like the live recording, and it struck me: so this is to be a rock star. I advanced to the last round, playing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I didn’t compete. I came back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve reached the finals every year since 2022, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was resolved to claim victory this year.

The worldwide group is like a support system. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Participants have a short window to put their all – explosive energy, precise mimicry, stage magnetism – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators evaluate you on a scale from four to six. When it's a draw, 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 selected an a metal group song for my act. I listened to it on a loop for multiple weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my limbs loose enough to leap, my fingers fast enough to copy riffs and my upper body set for those moves and leaps. When the big day dawned, I could sense the music in my being.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had tied with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an tiebreaker. We went head-to-head to that classic rock anthem by Guns N’ Roses. When I heard the song, I felt at ease because it was one that I knew, and above all I was so eager to perform one more time. As they declared I’d won, the area exploded.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then all present started singing the song that well-known track and hoisted me on to their arms. Justin Howard – also known as his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I cried. I was Finland’s first air guitar global winner in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was also present. He offered me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “long overdue”.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a genuine belief. Participants come from all over the world, and everyone is positive and uplifting. Prior to performing, every competitor shows support. Then for one minute you’re free to be yourself, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and string player in a band with my brother called the group title, referencing the sports figure, as we’re influenced by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been serving drinks for a couple of years, and I produce mini movies and music videos. Winning hasn’t changed my day-to-day life drastically but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it brings more artistic projects. My hometown will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are great prospects.

At present, I’m just thankful: for the group, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who picked up a newspaper and thought, “That's for me.”