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Back when I was 10, I discovered a story in my community gazette about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My family had helped out at the very first contest back in 1996 – mom gave out flyers, my dad managed the music. Ever since, domestic competitions have been held globally, with the titleholders assembling in Oulu each August.

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

In my youth, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My family were enthusiasts – my dad loved The Boss and U2. the band AC/DC was the first band I stumbled upon myself. the lead guitarist, the guitar hero, was my idol.

When I stepped on stage, I played my set to AC/DC’s that classic track. The spectators started chanting “Angus”, just like the live recording, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a guitar hero. I reached the championship, competing to a large audience in the town square, and I was captivated. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I didn't participate. I went back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “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 placed second, so I was determined to claim victory this year.

The air guitar community is like a support system. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a true ethos.

The contest is intense but joyful. Contestants have 60 seconds to put their all – dynamic presence, perfect mime, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. Judges score you on a point range from four to six. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the last two competitors: a song plays and you create on the spot.

Training is crucial. I chose an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I listened to it on a loop for weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my lower body loose enough to leap, my hands nimble enough to mimic solos and my spine set for those moves and leaps. By the time the event dawned, I could sense the music in my soul.

After everyone had performed, the results were tallied, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was occasion for an final showdown. We competed directly to the Guns N’ Roses hit by Guns N’ Roses. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and more than anything I was so excited to play again. As they declared I’d emerged victorious, the venue went wild.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then all present started performing Neil Young’s Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their backs. A former champion – also known as his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I shed tears. I was Finland’s first air guitar world champion in 25 years. The prior titleholder, the former champion, was in attendance as well. He gave me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. The phrase we live by is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a real philosophy. Competitors come from globally, and all involved is helpful and motivating. As you prepare to compete, all participants comes and hugs you. Then for one minute you’re able to be yourself, playful, the biggest rock star in the world.

I’m also a drummer and musician in a group with my family member called the band name, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been working in bars for a short time, and I produce independent videos and song visuals. The victory hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it leads to more artistic projects. The city will be a cultural hub the coming year, so there are exciting things ahead.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the community, for the opportunity to play, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “I'd love to try that.”