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At the age of 10, I discovered a feature in my local paper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, held annually every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the pioneering contest since 1996 – mom distributed flyers, dad organized the music. Ever since, domestic competitions have been organized all across the world, with the titleholders converging in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I inquired with my family if I could enter. They weren't sure at first; the event was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They thought it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were music fans – dad loved Springsteen and U2. the Australian rockers was the initial group I discovered on my own. Angus Young, the lead guitarist, was my inspiration.

When I stepped on stage, I performed my act to AC/DC’s that classic track. The audience started shouting “Angus”, just like the album track, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a music icon. I reached the championship, performing to a large audience in the town square, and I was hooked. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, tested out several stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve made it to the final annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was resolved to win this year.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief.

The competition itself is high-energy yet fun. Participants have 60 seconds to deliver maximum effort – high-powered performance, perfect mime, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. The panel rate you on a grading system from a specific numeric range. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a song plays and you freestyle.

Training is crucial. I selected an a metal group song for my routine. I listened to it on a loop for multiple weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs prepared enough to bound, my digits nimble enough to mimic solos and my spine prepared for those gestures and hops. By the time the event came, I could internalize the track in my being.

After everyone had performed, the scores came in, and I had tied with the titleholder from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was moment for an air-off. We faced off to that classic rock anthem by the rock group. Once the track began, I felt at ease because it was a tune I recognized, and primarily I was so excited to have another go. Once the results were read I’d won, the square exploded.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I blacked out from the excitement. Then all present started chanting the song Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their backs. A former champion – alias his stage name – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I cried. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar world champion in two and a half decades. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was also present. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

This worldwide group is like a close-knit group. The phrase we live by is “Make air, not war”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from many countries, and everyone is helpful and motivating. Prior to performing, each contestant shows support. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be uninhibited, silly, the top performer in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and musician in a band with my family member called the group title, inspired by the sports figure, as we’re influenced by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been serving drinks for a couple of years, and I produce mini movies and music videos. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities too much but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I aspire it results in more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a designated cultural center the coming year, so there are promising opportunities.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the community, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “I want to do that.”