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When I was just 10, I came across a story in my local paper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, which take place every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had helped out at the very first contest since 1996 – mom distributed flyers, my father sorted the music. Since then, country-level contests have been organized all across the world, with the champions gathering in Oulu every summer.

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

During childhood, I was always “playing” air guitar, acting out to the biggest rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My parents were enthusiasts – my father loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the original act I discovered on my own. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started chanting “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, performing to a large audience in the town square, and I was addicted. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show once more, 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 make “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve made it to the final annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was determined to win this year.

The air guitar community is like a support system. Our guiding principle is ‘Make air, not war’. It sounds silly, but it’s a true ethos.

The competition itself is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have one minute to put their all – high-powered performance, flawless imitation, rock star charisma – on an imaginary instrument. The panel rate you on a scale from a specific numeric range. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I picked an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I had it on repeat for a long time. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my lower body prepared enough to bound, my hands nimble enough to mimic solos and my back ready for those bends and jumps. By the time the event came, I could sense the music in my bones.

When the show concluded, the results were tallied, and I had drawn with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was moment for an air-off. We competed directly to that classic rock anthem by Guns N’ Roses. When I heard the song, I felt at ease because it was one that I knew, and above all I was so thrilled to play again. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the square exploded.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then the crowd started chanting the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and lifted me on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – also known as his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my dear companions, was hugging me. I cried. I was the first Finnish air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a real philosophy. Participants come from many countries, and everyone is supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, each contestant offers an embrace. Then for one minute you’re able to be free, playful, the top performer in the world.

Besides that, I'm a percussionist and musician in a musical act with my brother called the group title, inspired by the football manager, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been serving drinks for a few years now, and I direct short films and song visuals. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I hope it results in more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are exciting things ahead.

For now, I’m just grateful: for the group, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”