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At the age of 10, I came across a feature in my hometown newspaper about the Air Guitar World Championships, which take place every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the very first contest starting from 1996 – mom distributed flyers, dad sorted the music. Ever since, country-level contests have been held all across the world, with the winners converging in Oulu each August.

At the time, I asked my parents if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the show was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They thought it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was determined.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, pretending to play to the biggest rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My family were music fans – my father loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the original act I discovered on my own. the lead guitarist, the frontman guitarist, was my idol.

As I took the stage, I did my routine to the band's that classic track. The audience started shouting “Angus”, reminiscent of the live recording, and it struck me: this is what it feels like to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, performing to crowds in the town square, and I was addicted. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show once more, but I didn’t compete. I returned at 18, experimented with various stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve made it to the final every year since 2022, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was determined to take the title this year.

Our global network is like a support system. The saying we live by is ‘Make air, not war’. It may seem funny, but it’s a genuine belief.

The event is high-energy yet fun. Contestants have 60 seconds to deliver maximum effort – explosive energy, precise mimicry, rock star charisma – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators rate you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the last two competitors: a tune begins and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I selected an Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my limbs prepared enough to leap, my fingers quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine prepared for those bends and jumps. When the event came, I could sense the music in my bones.

Once all acts were done, the results were tallied, and I had tied with the titleholder from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an final showdown. We faced off to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the rock group. As the music started, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and more than anything I was so eager to perform one more time. As they declared I’d triumphed, the area went wild.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then everyone started chanting the song Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their shoulders. One of the greats – also known as Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my best pals, was embracing me. I cried. I was Finland’s first air guitar international titleholder in two and a half decades. The prior titleholder, the earlier victor, was also present. He offered me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Competitors come from globally, and all involved is helpful and motivating. As you prepare to compete, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re free to be uninhibited, silly, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and string player in a musical act with my family member called the band name, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I produce independent videos and song visuals. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I aspire it results in more artistic projects. Oulu will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just thankful: for the community, for the ability to compete, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “I want to do that.”