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At the age of 10, I read about a article in my community gazette about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the inaugural contest since 1996 – my mother gave out flyers, dad organized the music. Ever since, country-level contests have been held all across the world, with the titleholders converging in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I inquired with my family if I could enter. They weren't sure at first; 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 resolved.

In my youth, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My parents were enthusiasts – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the Australian rockers was the initial group I found independently. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my inspiration.

When I stepped on stage, I played my set to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started shouting “Angus”, just like the live recording, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a rock star. I advanced to the last round, performing to hundreds of people in the public plaza, and I was hooked. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a adjudicator one year, and opened for the show once more, but I didn’t compete. I came back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and choose “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve made it to the final every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to claim victory this year.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our guiding principle is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a real philosophy.

The contest is intense but joyful. Competitors have a short window to put their all – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. The panel rate you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. In the case of a tie, there’s an “tiebreaker” 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 performance. I listened to it on a loop for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my lower body loose enough to leap, my fingers fast enough to copy riffs and my spine set for those moves and leaps. When the big day dawned, I could internalize the track in my soul.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had tied with the titleholder from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an air-off. We competed directly to the Guns N’ Roses hit by Guns N’ Roses. Once the track began, I felt at ease because it was a tune I recognized, and primarily I was so excited to play again. As they declared I’d emerged victorious, the venue erupted.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from shock. Then everyone started singing the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and lifted me on to their shoulders. One of the greats – alias his stage name – a former champion and one of my best pals, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar world champion in two and a half decades. The prior titleholder, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was in attendance as well. He gave me the biggest hug and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a family. The phrase we live by is “Create music, not conflict”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a true way of life. People come from all over the world, and each person is helpful and motivating. Prior to performing, each contestant offers an embrace. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be yourself, humorous, the biggest rock star in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and musician in a group with my sibling called the band name, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I produce mini movies and music videos. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I aspire it results in more innovative opportunities. The city will be a designated cultural center next year, so there are promising opportunities.

For now, I’m just grateful: for the community, for the ability to compete, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “I'd love to try that.”