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Back when I was 10, I came across a feature in my hometown newspaper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, which take place every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the very first contest back in 1996 – my mum gave out flyers, dad managed the music. Ever since, country-level contests have been held globally, with the winners assembling in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the show was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They felt it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.

As a kid, I was always “playing” air guitar, pretending to play to the biggest rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My family were enthusiasts – my dad loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the first band I found independently. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to the band's that classic track. The audience started shouting “Angus”, reminiscent of the live recording, and it struck me: this must be to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, competing to a large audience in the public plaza, and I was hooked. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. 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 fans continued using “Little Angus” so I embraced it and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve reached the finals each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was determined to win this year.

The air guitar community is like a support system. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Competitors have a short window to put their all – high-powered performance, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. Judges rate you on a scale from four to six. In the case of a tie, there’s an “air-off” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I picked an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I had it on repeat for a long time. I stretched constantly, trying to get my limbs loose enough to jump, my hands quick enough to mimic solos and my back prepared for those bends and jumps. Once the big day arrived, I could internalize the track in my soul.

Once all acts were done, the results were tallied, and I had drawn with the titleholder from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was occasion for an tiebreaker. We faced off to that classic rock anthem by Guns N’ Roses. When I heard the song, I felt at ease because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so eager to have another go. When they announced I’d emerged victorious, the venue exploded.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I blacked out from shock. Then all present started singing the classic tune that well-known track and lifted me on to their arms. One of the greats – 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 global winner in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was also present. He gave me the warmest embrace and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. 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 positive and uplifting. Before you go on stage, all participants offers an embrace. Then for one minute you’re free to be yourself, playful, the top performer in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and guitarist in a band with my sibling called the band name, inspired by the football manager, as we’re fans of UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I create mini movies and performance clips. Winning hasn’t altered my routine drastically but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it brings more artistic projects. The city will be a designated cultural center next year, so there are great prospects.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that little kid who picked up a newspaper and thought, “I'd love to try that.”