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At the age of 10, I discovered a article in my local paper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had helped out at the very first contest back in 1996 – my mum distributed flyers, my father managed the music. Since then, country-level contests have been staged globally, with the champions assembling in Oulu annually.

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 felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was resolved.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My parents were enthusiasts – my dad loved Springsteen and U2. AC/DC was the initial group I discovered on my own. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my inspiration.

When I stepped on stage, I did my routine to the band's that classic track. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a rock star. I reached the championship, performing to a large audience in Oulu’s market square, and I was captivated. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a judge one year, and started the show on another occasion, but I didn't participate. I went back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I embraced it and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve made it to the final every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was set to claim victory this year.

The worldwide group is like a close-knit group. The saying we live by is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It may seem funny, but it’s a real philosophy.

The competition itself is high-energy yet fun. Participants have a short window to put their all – high-powered performance, flawless imitation, rock star charisma – on an nonexistent axe. Adjudicators score you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the last two competitors: a tune begins and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I selected an a metal group song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my legs loose enough to leap, my hands quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine prepared for those bends and jumps. By the time competition day arrived, I could sense the music in my being.

When the show concluded, the results were tallied, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was moment for an final showdown. We faced off to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the rock group. When I heard the song, I felt comforted because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so excited to play again. As they declared I’d triumphed, the square exploded.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then the crowd started singing the classic tune that well-known track and raised me up on to their arms. A former champion – AKA his performer title – a former champion and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I wept. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar world champion in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was in attendance as well. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.

The air guitar community is like a support system. The phrase we live by is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief. Competitors come from globally, and each person is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, each contestant offers an embrace. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be uninhibited, playful, the biggest rock star in the world.

Additionally, I am a drummer and string player in a musical act with my family member called the band name, referencing the football manager, as we’re fans of Britpop and new wave. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I create independent videos and performance clips. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities too much but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it leads to more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a designated cultural center the coming year, so there are exciting things ahead.

For now, I’m just appreciative: for the group, for the ability to compete, and for that little kid who read an article and thought, “I'd love to try that.”