I Became the Imaginary Guitar International Titleholder
When I was just 10, I came across a feature in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, held annually every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the pioneering contest starting from 1996 – mom handed out flyers, my dad sorted the music. Ever since, national championships have been organized all across the world, with the winners converging in Oulu each August.
At the time, I inquired with my family if I could compete. They weren't sure at first; the show was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They thought it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was set on it.
During childhood, I was always performing air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were lovers of music – dad loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the original act I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my idol.
Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started chanting “Angus”, just like the concert version, and it hit me: so this is to be a guitar hero. I reached the championship, performing to hundreds of people in the public plaza, and I was hooked. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.
Then I took a break. I was a judge one year, and opened for the show once more, but I didn't participate. I came back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve reached the finals every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was resolved to win this year.
The air guitar community is like a support system. Our motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It may seem funny, but it’s a genuine belief.
The contest is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have one minute to give everything – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. The panel evaluate you on a grading system from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the final two contestants: a track is selected and you create on the spot.
Getting ready is key. I selected an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for multiple weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs flexible enough to bound, my fingers nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my back set for those bends and jumps. When the event came, I could internalize the track in my being.
Once all acts were done, the points were announced, and I had matched with the winner from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was time for an final showdown. We went head-to-head to that classic rock anthem by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt relieved because it was a tune I recognized, and above all I was so eager to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d won, the venue went wild.
The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from shock. Then all present started chanting the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their shoulders. One of the greats – also known as his stage name – a past winner and one of my best pals, was holding me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar global winner in two and a half decades. The earlier winner from Finland, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was there, too. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.
The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. The phrase we live by is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a genuine belief. People come from globally, and all involved is positive and uplifting. As you prepare to compete, each contestant offers an embrace. Then for one minute you’re able to be free, humorous, the top performer in the world.
I’m also a percussionist and string player in a musical act with my brother 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 produce short films and song visuals. Winning hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it leads to more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a designated cultural center the coming year, so there are exciting things ahead.
For now, I’m just grateful: for the group, for the chance to perform, and for that budding enthusiast who found a story and thought, “That's for me.”
