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At the age of 10, I discovered a article in my local paper about the Air Guitar World Championships, that happens every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had participated at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – my mum distributed flyers, dad organized the music. From that point, country-level contests have been held in many nations, with the winners assembling in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could enter. Initially they had doubts; the show 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 “playing” air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – my dad loved The Boss and U2. AC/DC was the original act I stumbled upon myself. the lead guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I did my routine to AC/DC’s that classic track. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it hit me: this is what it feels like to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, performing to a large audience in the town square, and I was captivated. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a referee one year, and opened for the show on another occasion, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, experimented with various stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve reached the finals annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to take the title this year.

Our global network is like a support system. The saying we live by is ‘Make air, not war’. It may seem funny, but it’s a true ethos.

The competition itself is intense but joyful. Contestants have a short window to give everything – high-powered performance, precise mimicry, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. The panel evaluate you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. In the case of a tie, there’s an “air-off” between the remaining participants: a tune begins and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I chose an a metal group song for my act. I played it repeatedly for multiple weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs loose enough to bound, my fingers quick enough to mimic solos and my spine ready for those gestures and hops. Once the big day came, I could internalize the track in my bones.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had matched with the winner from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an tiebreaker. We faced off to the Guns N’ Roses hit by Guns N’ Roses. When I heard the song, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so eager to play again. As they declared I’d emerged victorious, the square exploded.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then everyone started chanting Neil Young’s that well-known track and hoisted me on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – AKA his performer title – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was hugging me. I cried. I was Finland’s first air guitar world champion in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “long overdue”.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief. Competitors come from all over the world, and each person is helpful and motivating. Before you go on stage, every competitor comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re free to be uninhibited, silly, the top performer in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and guitarist in a musical act with my sibling called the band name, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re fans of Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a couple of years, and I direct mini movies and song visuals. The victory hasn’t altered my routine drastically but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it brings more artistic projects. The city will be a cultural hub next year, so there are great prospects.

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