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Back when I was 10, I discovered a article in my community gazette about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the very first contest back in 1996 – my mother distributed flyers, dad sorted the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been staged in many nations, with the champions converging in Oulu each August.

At the time, I requested permission if I could compete. Initially they had doubts; the show was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was determined.

During childhood, I was always performing air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My family were enthusiasts – dad loved The Boss and U2. AC/DC was the original act I found independently. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to the band's that classic track. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, reminiscent of the live recording, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, competing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was hooked. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a judge one year, and opened for the show another time, but I didn’t compete. I went back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but people kept calling me “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 claim victory this year.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a true ethos.

The competition itself is competitive but uplifting. Competitors have a short window to put their all – explosive energy, perfect mime, rock star charisma – on an invisible guitar. Adjudicators evaluate you on a grading system from four to six. If scores are equal, there’s an “air-off” between the final two contestants: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I chose an a metal group song for my act. I had it on repeat for a long time. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my legs flexible enough to bound, my fingers nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine prepared for those gestures and hops. By the time competition day dawned, I could internalize the track in my bones.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had drawn with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an final showdown. We competed directly to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt comforted because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so eager to play again. As they declared I’d won, the area went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I lost consciousness from shock. Then everyone started singing the song that well-known track and hoisted me on to their shoulders. One of the greats – also known as Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I wept. I was the first Finnish air guitar global winner in 25 years. The prior titleholder, the former champion, was also present. He gave me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy. Competitors come from globally, and all involved is helpful and motivating. Prior to performing, each contestant offers an embrace. Then for a brief period you’re able to be free, humorous, the top performer in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and musician in a group with my sibling called the band name, referencing the sports figure, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been working in bars for a few years now, and I direct short films and performance clips. Winning hasn’t altered my routine drastically but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it leads to more artistic projects. Oulu will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are promising opportunities.

Currently, I’m just grateful: for the community, for the opportunity to play, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “I'd love to try that.”