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Back when I was 10, I came across a article in my community gazette about the Air Guitar World Championships, held annually every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had participated at the inaugural contest since 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, my father organized the music. From that point, national championships have been organized all across the world, with the titleholders gathering in Oulu each August.

Initially, I asked my parents 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 daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.

As a kid, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My parents were lovers of music – my father loved The Boss and U2. the Australian rockers was the original act I found independently. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to the band's that classic track. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, reminiscent of the album track, and it struck me: so this is to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, performing to a large audience in the town square, and I was hooked. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I stayed out of the contest. I came back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I embraced it and adopt “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was resolved to take the title this year.

The worldwide group is like a support system. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have a short window to give everything – explosive energy, perfect mime, rock star charisma – on an nonexistent axe. The panel score you on a point range from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “air-off” between the remaining participants: a tune begins and you improvise.

Training is crucial. I selected an a metal group song for my performance. I had it on repeat for a long time. I stretched constantly, trying to get my lower body prepared enough to jump, my fingers nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my back set for those gestures and hops. Once the event dawned, I could feel the song in my being.

After everyone had performed, the results were tallied, and I had drawn with the titleholder from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was time for an air-off. We went head-to-head to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the rock group. When I heard the song, I felt comforted because it was a tune I recognized, and primarily I was so excited to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the square went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I lost consciousness from the excitement. Then all present started chanting the song that well-known track and hoisted me on to their arms. One of the greats – also known as Nordic Thunder – a past winner and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I shed tears. I was the first Finnish air guitar world champion 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”.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our guiding saying 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 helpful and motivating. Before you go on stage, every competitor shows support. Then for 60 seconds you’re able to be free, silly, the top performer in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and guitarist in a band with my sibling called the group title, inspired by the football manager, as we’re influenced by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I create independent videos and music videos. Winning hasn’t altered my routine significantly but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I aspire it brings more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a cultural hub the coming year, so there are great prospects.

For now, I’m just appreciative: for the community, for the chance to perform, and for that budding enthusiast who picked up a newspaper and thought, “I'd love to try that.”