OULU, Finland — In a thrilling showcase of talent, Finnish air guitarist Aapo “The Angus” Rautio claimed the world championship title on Friday night, marking the first victory for Finland since 2000.
The Air Guitar World Championships, now in its 28th year, culminated in a dramatic final held in a bustling square in Oulu, drawing competitors from 13 different countries. Participants performed two songs in separate rounds, each lasting 60 seconds, while imaginatively playing their air guitars.
Competitors displayed their passion and creativity, utilizing various props and costumes. However, the rules strictly prohibited the use of real instruments or backup bands.
The exciting final featured last year’s champion, Canada’s Zachary “Ichabod Fame” Knowles, as well as eight national champions and seven additional finalists who clawed their way through the qualifying rounds. Notable challengers included U.S. champion Saladin “Six String Sal” Thomas and German champion Patrick “Van Airhoven” Culek.
A panel of five judges, comprised of performing arts professionals, assessed the contestants. The winner not only received the coveted title but also a “Flying Finn” guitar crafted by Finnish luthier Matti Nevalainen.
Since its inception in 1996, the Air Guitar World Championships have promoted a lighthearted yet compelling ideology, claiming that global issues like war and climate change could fade into history as everyone joins in the spirit of air guitar performance.
According to competition rules, contenders may choose between electric and acoustic air guitars. Judges take various factors into account, including originality, stage presence, and what the competition calls “Airness.” Each judge scores performances on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0, and the cumulative score from both rounds determines the victor.
