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At the age of 10, I discovered a article in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had participated at the pioneering contest starting from 1996 – my mother gave out flyers, my father organized the music. From that point, national championships have been organized globally, with the winners converging in Oulu each August.

At the time, I requested permission if I could enter. At first they were hesitant; the show was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They thought it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always “playing” air guitar, acting out to the biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. Mom and Dad were enthusiasts – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the original act I found independently. the guitarist, the guitar hero, was my hero.

When I stepped on stage, I did my routine to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started yelling “Angus”, reminiscent of the album track, and it hit me: so this is to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, playing to a large audience in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a adjudicator one year, and started the show another time, but I didn’t compete. I returned at 18, tested out several stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I embraced it and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve reached the finals every year since 2022, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was set to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a family. The saying we live by is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It sounds silly, but it’s a true ethos.

The contest is intense but joyful. Competitors have a short window to put their all – dynamic presence, precise mimicry, rock star charisma – on an invisible guitar. Adjudicators rate you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “air-off” between the last two competitors: a tune begins and you freestyle.

Preparation is everything. I selected an Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I had it on repeat for weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs prepared enough to jump, my digits quick enough to mimic solos and my spine ready for those bends and jumps. By the time the big day dawned, I could feel the song in my soul.

When the show concluded, the results were tallied, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was occasion for an air-off. We competed directly to that classic rock anthem by the iconic band. When I heard the song, I felt comforted because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so eager to play again. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the venue exploded.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I blacked out from shock. Then everyone started performing the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their arms. Justin Howard – also known as his performer title – a former champion and one of my closest friends, was holding me. I shed tears. I was the first Finnish air guitar global winner in 25 years. The prior titleholder, the earlier victor, was there, too. He gave me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a close-knit group. The phrase we live by is “Create music, not conflict”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from many countries, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. Before you go on stage, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be free, humorous, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Besides that, I'm a beat keeper and string player in a musical act with my family member called the group title, inspired by the sports figure, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been serving drinks for a couple of years, and I create independent videos and performance clips. Winning hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I wish it leads to more creative work. My hometown will be a designated cultural center next year, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just appreciative: for the community, for the opportunity to play, and for that young child who found a story and thought, “I'd love to try that.”