It’s a music contest with a difference: plenty of strumming, but no strings – and no guitar. The first Russian national Air Guitar Championship has been held in Moscow with dozens of fans rocking one of the capital’s clubs to compete in the dis

It all started in the late 70s. Back then heavy metal giants like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest were kings of the stage. Their fans would come to concerts and imitate the moves of their idols emulating what was being played.

Today the annual Air Guitar World Championship is regularly held in Oulu, Finland. The winner of the Russian Championship automatically advances to the world contest.

The organisers of the national event are positive that Russia has a great chance of conquering the air guitar world.

“This is the year for Russia! Russia won hockey, Russia won football, Russia won handball, Russia won basketball, Russia won Eurovision. It's time for Russia to take Air Guitar home,” said Alex Shifrin, Director of The Creative Factory.
 
The preparations for the event began six months ago and the organisers were surprised by the great response and interest from rock fans.

Among the contestants are music lovers who are lawyers, doctors and managers in their day jobs.  

But winning isn't the most important thing for them. What counts most is the pleasure of performing and living a childhood dream of being a rock star on stage. And the emotional support of fans was the best reward for their efforts and for their love of rock'n'roll.