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When I was just 10, I read about a feature in my local paper about the Air Guitar World Championships, that happens every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had participated at the very first contest since 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, my dad managed the music. Since then, country-level contests have been held globally, with the champions gathering in Oulu each August.

At the time, I asked my parents if I could participate. At first they were hesitant; the event was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They believed it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was resolved.

As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, acting out to the biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My parents were enthusiasts – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the Australian rockers was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the guitar hero, was my hero.

As I took the stage, I did my routine to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, reminiscent of the album track, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a rock star. I reached the championship, competing to hundreds of people in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I didn't participate. I returned at 18, tried a few different stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and make “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve qualified for the last round every year since 2022, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was set to win this year.

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

The contest is high-energy yet fun. Participants have 60 seconds to deliver maximum effort – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, stage magnetism – on an nonexistent axe. Adjudicators score you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a song plays and you create on the spot.

Getting ready is key. I chose an Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for multiple weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my limbs flexible enough to jump, my hands quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine prepared for those bends and jumps. Once the event dawned, I could sense the music in my being.

When the show concluded, the results were tallied, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an tiebreaker. We competed directly to Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses. When I heard the song, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and more than anything I was so excited to have another go. Once the results were read I’d won, the area erupted.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then all present started singing the song that well-known track and raised me up on to their backs. One of the greats – also known as his stage name – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I shed tears. I was the first Finnish air guitar international titleholder in two and a half decades. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was also present. He offered me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a family. Our guiding saying is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from many countries, and everyone is supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for one minute you’re free to be free, silly, the top performer in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and musician in a band with my family member called the group title, inspired by Gareth Southgate, as we’re influenced by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been serving drinks for a few years now, and I produce short films and performance clips. Winning hasn’t changed my day-to-day life drastically but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I wish it results in more creative work. My hometown will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are promising opportunities.

Currently, I’m just appreciative: for the network, for the chance to perform, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”