I'm the Imaginary Guitar International Titleholder

Back when I was 10, I came across a feature in my hometown newspaper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the pioneering contest starting from 1996 – mom distributed flyers, my father managed the music. From that point, national championships have been staged all across the world, with the titleholders assembling in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could participate. Initially they had doubts; the event was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They thought it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was set on it.

In my youth, I was always performing air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were enthusiasts – my father loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the Australian rockers was the original act I found independently. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my hero.

When I stepped on stage, I played my set to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, reminiscent of the concert version, and it hit me: this must be to be a music icon. I reached the championship, playing to a large audience in the public plaza, and I was hooked. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a adjudicator one year, and started the show once more, but I didn't participate. I returned at 18, tested out several stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve reached the finals each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was resolved to claim victory this year.

Our global network is like a family. Our guiding principle is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It may seem funny, but it’s a genuine belief.

The event is high-energy yet fun. Contestants have a short window to put their all – high-powered performance, perfect mime, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. The panel evaluate you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. In the case of a tie, there’s an “air-off” between the last two competitors: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Training is crucial. I selected an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I had it on repeat for multiple weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my limbs loose enough to bound, my digits nimble enough to mimic solos and my upper body set for those bends and jumps. Once the event came, I could internalize the track in my bones.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had drawn with the winner from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an air-off. We faced off to that classic rock anthem by the rock group. When I heard the song, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and primarily I was so eager to play again. As they declared I’d triumphed, the area went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then everyone started chanting Neil Young’s that well-known track and hoisted me on to their backs. A former champion – alias his stage name – a past winner and one of my best pals, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the first Finnish air guitar world champion in a quarter-century. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was also present. He gave me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our guiding saying is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a genuine belief. Participants come from all over the world, and everyone is helpful and motivating. As you prepare to compete, every competitor shows support. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be uninhibited, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and guitarist in a band with my brother called the band name, inspired by Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I produce mini movies and music videos. The victory hasn’t changed my day-to-day life drastically but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I aspire it leads to more creative work. The city will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are great prospects.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the group, for the chance to perform, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “I want to do that.”