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Back when I was 10, I discovered a feature in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had participated at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – my mother gave out flyers, my father organized the music. From that point, national championships have been held globally, with the champions converging in Oulu annually.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the competition was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They believed it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was set on it.

As a kid, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the biggest rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My parents were enthusiasts – my father loved Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the first band I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

As I took the stage, I did my routine to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started chanting “Angus”, just like the concert version, and it struck me: this must be to be a rock star. I reached the championship, playing to crowds in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a adjudicator one year, and opened for the show on another occasion, but I didn't participate. I went back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve made it to the final every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was resolved to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a family. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. It may seem funny, but it’s a true ethos.

The competition itself is intense but joyful. Participants have a short window to deliver maximum effort – explosive energy, flawless imitation, stage magnetism – on an invisible guitar. The panel score you on a grading system from a specific numeric range. In the case of a tie, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a track is selected and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I selected an a metal group song for my routine. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my limbs prepared enough to leap, my digits fast enough to imitate guitar parts and my upper body set for those bends and jumps. Once the big day came, I could internalize the track in my bones.

When the show concluded, the scores came in, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was occasion for an final showdown. We faced off to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the rock group. Once the track began, I felt comforted because it was familiar to me, and more than anything I was so thrilled to have another go. As they declared I’d triumphed, the square exploded.

The moment is hazy. I think I lost consciousness from surprise. Then everyone started performing Neil Young’s Rockin’ in the Free World and lifted me on to their arms. Justin Howard – AKA his performer title – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I shed tears. I was Finland’s first air guitar world champion in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was also present. He offered me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

The air guitar community is like a support system. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a true way of life. Competitors come from many countries, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, each contestant offers an embrace. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be uninhibited, silly, the biggest rock star in the world.

Besides that, I'm a beat keeper and guitarist in a musical act with my brother called the group title, named after the sports figure, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been working in bars for a short time, and I create mini movies and music videos. The title hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it brings more artistic projects. The city will be a designated cultural center the coming year, so there are great prospects.

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