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When I was just 10, I came across a article in my hometown newspaper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had participated at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, my father sorted the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been organized all across the world, with the winners gathering in Oulu each August.

Initially, I inquired with my family if I could compete. Initially they had doubts; the show was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They felt it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was determined.

In my youth, I was always miming air guitar, acting out to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. Mom and Dad were music fans – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the original act I found independently. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my idol.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to AC/DC’s that classic track. The audience started shouting “Angus”, reminiscent of the live recording, and it hit me: so this is to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, competing to hundreds of people in the public plaza, and I was captivated. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a adjudicator one year, and opened for the show another time, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, experimented with various stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and make “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve made it to the final annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I came second, so I was resolved to take the title this year.

The worldwide group is like a family. The saying we live by is ‘Make air, not war’. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy.

The competition itself is intense but joyful. Participants have one minute to give everything – explosive energy, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. The panel evaluate you on a point range from four to six. If scores are equal, there’s an “air-off” between the last two competitors: a song plays and you improvise.

Training is crucial. I picked an Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I listened to it on a loop for a long time. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs prepared enough to leap, my digits nimble enough to copy riffs and my upper body ready for those gestures and hops. By the time the event came, I could sense the music in my being.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an final showdown. We faced off to the Guns N’ Roses hit by Guns N’ Roses. Once the track began, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and primarily I was so excited to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d triumphed, the square went wild.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from shock. Then everyone started performing Neil Young’s Rockin’ in the Free World and raised me up on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – AKA his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my best pals, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was Finland’s first air guitar global winner in 25 years. The prior titleholder, the earlier victor, was also present. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our guiding saying is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a genuine belief. Competitors come from all over the world, and all involved is helpful and motivating. As you prepare to compete, all participants comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re able to be free, humorous, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a drummer and guitarist in a group with my family member called the group title, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re fans of British music genres. I’ve been serving drinks for a few years now, and I direct independent videos and song visuals. Winning hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I aspire it results in more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a European capital of culture the coming year, so there are exciting things ahead.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the network, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “I want to do that.”