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Back when I was 10, I came across a article in my hometown newspaper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, which take place every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had participated at the very first contest starting from 1996 – mom distributed flyers, my father managed the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been staged in many nations, with the titleholders gathering in Oulu each August.

Back then, I inquired with my family if I could participate. At first they were hesitant; the event was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They believed it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always “playing” air guitar, acting out to the iconic rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My family were lovers of music – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the original act I discovered on my own. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my idol.

When I stepped on stage, I did my routine to AC/DC’s that classic track. The audience started chanting “Angus”, just like the concert version, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a guitar hero. I made it to the finals, playing to a large audience in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show on another occasion, but I didn’t compete. I went 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 qualified for the last round every year since 2022, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was determined to claim victory 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 real philosophy.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Competitors have a short window to put their all – high-powered performance, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. 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 last two competitors: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I selected an a metal group song for my routine. I listened to it on a loop for weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs prepared enough to jump, my hands quick enough to mimic solos and my upper body set for those bends and jumps. By the time the big day arrived, I could internalize the track in my soul.

Once all acts were done, the scores came in, and I had drawn with the winner from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was moment for an final showdown. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses. As the music started, 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 emerged victorious, the venue erupted.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from shock. Then the crowd started performing the classic tune that well-known track and lifted me on to their backs. A former champion – AKA his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my best pals, was holding me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He offered me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “about damn time”.

Our global network is like a support system. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. People come from globally, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, every competitor comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be uninhibited, playful, the biggest rock star in the world.

Besides that, I'm a drummer and musician in a band with my family member called the band name, named after the football manager, as we’re influenced by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I create short films and music videos. The victory hasn’t changed my day-to-day life significantly but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it results in more innovative opportunities. The city will be a European capital of culture the coming year, so there are great prospects.

Currently, I’m just appreciative: for the group, for the chance to perform, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”