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When I was just 10, I read about a article in my community gazette about the Air Guitar World Championships, that happens every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the inaugural contest since 1996 – mom distributed flyers, my father sorted the music. Ever since, domestic competitions have been organized all across the world, with the winners gathering in Oulu annually.

Initially, I asked my parents if I could compete. 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 resolved.

During childhood, I was always “playing” air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were enthusiasts – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the Australian rockers was the first band I found independently. the guitarist, the frontman guitarist, was my idol.

As I took the stage, I did my routine to AC/DC’s that classic track. The spectators started chanting “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it struck me: this must be to be a guitar hero. I reached the championship, competing to crowds in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show on another occasion, but I didn’t compete. I returned at 18, experimented with various stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I embraced it and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was set to take the title this year.

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

The event is high-energy yet fun. Competitors have 60 seconds to deliver maximum effort – explosive energy, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. Adjudicators score you on a grading system from a specific numeric range. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a song plays and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I selected an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I had it on repeat for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs flexible enough to leap, my fingers fast enough to imitate guitar parts and my upper body prepared for those bends and jumps. Once the big day came, I could internalize the track in my bones.

After everyone had performed, the scores came in, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was moment for an final showdown. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses. Once the track began, I felt comforted because it was familiar to me, and more than anything I was so eager to play again. When they announced I’d won, the area went wild.

The moment is hazy. I think I lost consciousness from the excitement. Then all present started singing Neil Young’s the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and raised me up on to their arms. One of the greats – also known as his performer title – a past winner and one of my best pals, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar global winner in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the former champion, was also present. He gave me the biggest hug and said it was “finally happening”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from all over the world, and everyone is positive and uplifting. Before you go on stage, every competitor shows support. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be uninhibited, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and guitarist in a group with my brother called the group title, named after the sports figure, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I direct independent videos and music videos. Winning hasn’t altered my routine drastically but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it leads to more artistic projects. The city will be a designated cultural center next year, so there are great prospects.

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