I Am the Imaginary Guitar International Titleholder

Back when I was 10, I read about a feature in my hometown newspaper about the Air Guitar World Championships, which take place every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the inaugural contest since 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, my father sorted the music. From that point, country-level contests have been organized in many nations, with the winners converging in Oulu each August.

At the time, I requested permission if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the competition was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They felt it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was set on it.

As a kid, I was always performing air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my invisible instrument. Mom and Dad were music fans – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the first band I discovered on my own. the guitarist, the guitar hero, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to AC/DC’s that classic track. The audience started chanting “Angus”, just like the concert version, and it hit me: so this is to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, competing to a large audience in the public plaza, and I was hooked. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a adjudicator one year, and kicked off the show once more, but I didn’t compete. I went back at 18, tested out several stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve qualified for the last round each competition since then, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was set to win this year.

The worldwide group is like a support system. Our guiding principle is ‘Make air, not war’. It may seem funny, but it’s a true ethos.

The event is high-energy yet fun. Contestants have one minute to give everything – explosive energy, precise mimicry, rock star charisma – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators rate you on a grading system from a specific numeric range. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a tune begins and you freestyle.

Training is crucial. I selected an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my legs loose enough to jump, my digits nimble enough to copy riffs and my back ready for those bends and jumps. When competition day came, I could feel the song in my bones.

After everyone had performed, the results were tallied, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, the Japanese titleholder – it was moment for an final showdown. We competed directly to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the iconic band. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and more than anything I was so excited to play again. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the venue exploded.

My memory is blurry. I think I blacked out from surprise. Then all present started chanting the classic tune the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and lifted me on to their backs. One of the greats – alias his stage name – a former champion and one of my best pals, was holding me. I wept. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar global winner in two and a half decades. The previous Finnish champion, the former champion, was also present. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a real philosophy. People come from globally, and each person is helpful and motivating. Prior to performing, every competitor offers an embrace. Then for a brief period you’re free to be free, playful, the top performer in the world.

Additionally, I am a drummer and guitarist in a musical act with my family member called the Southgates, inspired by the sports figure, as we’re fans of Britpop and new wave. I’ve been working in bars for a couple of years, and I direct independent videos and music videos. Winning hasn’t altered my routine drastically but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I wish it leads to more creative work. The city will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are great prospects.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that budding enthusiast who picked up a newspaper and thought, “That's for me.”