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At the age of 10, I came across a story in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My parents had helped out at the very first contest since 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, my dad managed the music. Ever since, national championships have been organized in many nations, with the champions converging in Oulu each August.

Initially, I requested permission if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the competition was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They felt it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.

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 father loved Springsteen and U2. AC/DC was the original act I found independently. the lead guitarist, the frontman guitarist, was my idol.

When I stepped on stage, I played my set to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started chanting “Angus”, just like the concert version, and it hit me: so this is to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, playing to crowds in the town square, and I was hooked. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a referee one year, and started the show once more, but I didn’t compete. I came back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and make “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve reached the finals annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I came second, so I was resolved to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. The saying we live by is ‘Make air, not war’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a true ethos.

The event is high-energy yet fun. Participants have a short window to give everything – dynamic presence, precise mimicry, stage magnetism – on an imaginary instrument. The panel evaluate you on a point range 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.

Preparation is everything. I chose an a metal group song for my act. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs flexible enough to jump, my fingers nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine prepared for those moves and leaps. Once the big day dawned, I could internalize the track in my soul.

Once all acts were done, the results were tallied, and I had tied with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was occasion for an air-off. We went head-to-head 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 excited to play again. Once the results were read I’d won, the square went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then the crowd started chanting the song Rockin’ in the Free World and lifted me on to their arms. One of the greats – AKA his stage name – a former champion and one of my closest friends, was embracing me. I cried. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was there, too. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from globally, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, every competitor comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re free to be free, playful, the biggest rock star in the world.

Additionally, I am a beat keeper and guitarist in a group with my sibling called the group title, referencing the football manager, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I create independent videos and song visuals. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities too much but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I hope it leads to more artistic projects. Oulu will be a designated cultural center next year, so there are exciting things ahead.

At present, I’m just appreciative: for the network, for the opportunity to play, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”