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Back when I was 10, I discovered a feature in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My parents had participated at the pioneering contest back in 1996 – my mother gave out flyers, my dad sorted the music. Ever since, country-level contests have been staged all across the world, with the winners converging in Oulu every summer.

At the time, I requested permission if I could participate. At first they were hesitant; the show was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They felt it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was set on it.

As a kid, I was always performing air guitar, miming along to the biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were enthusiasts – my father loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my idol.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started chanting “Angus”, reminiscent of the concert version, and it hit me: this must be to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, performing to crowds in the public plaza, and I was captivated. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a referee one year, and started the show on another occasion, but I didn’t compete. I went back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I embraced it and make “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve qualified for the last round annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I came second, so I was set to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a family. Our guiding principle is ‘Make air, not war’. It sounds silly, but it’s a true ethos.

The competition itself is high-energy yet fun. Contestants have one minute to give everything – explosive energy, perfect mime, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. The panel score you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the last two competitors: a song plays and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I picked an Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my legs loose enough to leap, my digits nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my upper body ready for those gestures and hops. When the big day dawned, I could sense the music in my bones.

Once all acts were done, the points were announced, and I had matched with the winner from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an air-off. We competed directly to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt at ease because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so excited to play again. As they declared I’d won, the area went wild.

The moment is hazy. I think I lost consciousness from surprise. Then everyone started chanting the song Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their backs. A former champion – AKA his stage name – a previous titleholder and one of my dear companions, was hugging me. I wept. I was Finland’s first air guitar global winner in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our guiding saying is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy. Competitors come from globally, and each person is helpful and motivating. Before you go on stage, every competitor offers an embrace. Then for one minute you’re free to be free, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and musician in a band with my sibling called the Southgates, referencing the football manager, as we’re fans of UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I produce independent videos and performance clips. The victory hasn’t altered my routine drastically but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I wish it brings more artistic projects. My hometown will be a designated cultural center next year, so there are great prospects.

At present, I’m just grateful: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who picked up a newspaper and thought, “I'd love to try that.”