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Back when I was 10, I discovered a story in my community gazette about the Global Air Guitar Contest, that happens every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the pioneering contest since 1996 – my mother handed out flyers, dad organized the music. Since then, domestic competitions have been staged in many nations, with the titleholders gathering in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I inquired with my family if I could compete. 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 daunting atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My family were enthusiasts – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the Australian rockers was the first band I discovered on my own. Angus Young, the lead guitarist, was my idol.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started yelling “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it struck me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, competing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was addicted. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a judge one year, and started the show another time, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, tested out several stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and adopt “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 set to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a family. Our guiding principle is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It may seem funny, but it’s a genuine belief.

The competition itself is intense but joyful. Competitors have one minute to give everything – dynamic presence, perfect mime, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. Judges score you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the last two competitors: a tune begins and you create on the spot.

Getting ready is key. I chose an Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my lower body loose enough to jump, my hands quick enough to copy riffs and my spine set for those gestures and hops. By the time the event dawned, I could internalize the track in my bones.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had drawn with the winner from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was moment for an air-off. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was one that I knew, and above all I was so excited to have another go. As they declared I’d won, the venue exploded.

The moment is hazy. I think I lost consciousness from the excitement. Then everyone started chanting the song Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their arms. One of the greats – also known as Nordic Thunder – a past winner and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I cried. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the former champion, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “finally happening”.

The air guitar community is like a family. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief. Competitors come from all over the world, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, each contestant shows support. Then for one minute you’re free to be free, humorous, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Besides that, I'm a drummer and guitarist in a group with my family member called the Southgates, named after Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I produce independent videos and music videos. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life drastically but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I hope it brings more innovative opportunities. The city will be a cultural hub soon, so there are great prospects.

For now, I’m just thankful: for the network, for the chance to perform, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”