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At the age of 10, I came across a story in my community gazette about the Global Air Guitar Contest, which take place every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My parents had volunteered at the very first contest since 1996 – my mother handed out flyers, dad sorted the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been held in many nations, with the champions assembling in Oulu each August.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the show was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They believed it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was resolved.

As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, acting out to the most popular rock tunes with my invisible instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. AC/DC was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my idol.

As I took the stage, I did my routine to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, just like the live recording, and it hit me: this must be to be a music icon. I reached the championship, competing to a large audience in the town square, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a referee one year, and started the show another time, but I didn't participate. I went back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve reached the finals every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was set to win this year.

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

The competition itself is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have 60 seconds to give everything – explosive energy, perfect mime, rock star charisma – on an nonexistent axe. The panel evaluate you on a point range from four to six. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Training is crucial. I selected an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I had it on repeat for weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my lower body flexible enough to leap, my fingers fast enough to copy riffs and my spine set for those bends and jumps. By the time the event arrived, I could sense the music in my soul.

After everyone had performed, the scores came in, and I had tied with the titleholder from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an final showdown. We competed directly to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the rock group. As the music started, I felt comforted because it was familiar to me, and primarily I was so excited to have another go. When they announced I’d won, the venue went wild.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from shock. Then the crowd started chanting the classic tune that well-known track and raised me up on to their arms. Justin Howard – also known as his stage name – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar global winner in two and a half decades. The prior titleholder, the former champion, was there, too. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a real philosophy. People come from many countries, and each person is helpful and motivating. Prior to performing, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be yourself, silly, the biggest rock star in the world.

I’m also a drummer and guitarist in a group with my family member called the Southgates, inspired by the sports figure, as we’re fans of Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I direct short films and music videos. The title hasn’t altered my routine significantly but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it leads to more artistic projects. My hometown will be a cultural hub the coming year, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just appreciative: for the group, for the chance to perform, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “I want to do that.”