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Back when I was 10, I discovered a feature in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had helped out at the very first contest since 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, my father organized the music. Ever since, domestic competitions have been held in many nations, with the titleholders gathering in Oulu every summer.

At the time, I inquired with my family if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the show was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They thought it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was determined.

During childhood, I was always performing air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My parents were music fans – my dad loved Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the original act I discovered on my own. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my hero.

As I took the stage, I did my routine to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, reminiscent of the concert version, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a guitar hero. I made it to the finals, playing to crowds in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a referee one year, and started the show on another occasion, but I didn't participate. I came back at 18, tested out several stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and adopt “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was resolved to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. The saying we live by is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy.

The event is intense but joyful. Contestants have 60 seconds to give everything – dynamic presence, perfect mime, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. The panel rate you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “air-off” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you improvise.

Training is crucial. I chose an a metal group song for my routine. I listened to it on a loop for a long time. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my lower body flexible enough to jump, my digits quick enough to mimic solos and my spine prepared for those moves and leaps. Once the event came, I could internalize the track in my being.

When the show concluded, the scores came in, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was moment for an tiebreaker. We competed directly to that classic rock anthem by the rock group. Once the track began, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so excited to play again. As they declared I’d emerged victorious, the venue erupted.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then the crowd started performing the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and raised me up on to their arms. One of the greats – also known as Nordic Thunder – a past winner and one of my best pals, was hugging me. I cried. I was the first Finnish air guitar world champion in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was in attendance as well. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a real philosophy. Participants come from all over the world, and each person is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, all participants offers an embrace. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be uninhibited, humorous, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a beat keeper and guitarist in a band with my brother called the band name, named after the football manager, as we’re influenced by British music genres. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I create mini movies and performance clips. Winning hasn’t altered my routine significantly but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it leads to more creative work. My hometown will be a designated cultural center the coming year, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just grateful: for the network, for the chance to perform, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “I'd love to try that.”