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Back when I was 10, I discovered a story in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My parents had helped out at the inaugural contest since 1996 – mom handed out flyers, my dad organized the music. Ever since, national championships have been organized in many nations, with the champions gathering in Oulu annually.

At the time, I requested permission if I could participate. Initially they had doubts; the event was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They thought it might be an daunting 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. My parents were lovers of music – my dad loved Springsteen and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the initial group I discovered on my own. the guitarist, the guitar hero, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I did my routine to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, reminiscent of the album track, and it hit me: this is what it feels like to be a guitar hero. I reached the championship, competing to hundreds of people in the public plaza, and I was captivated. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show once more, but I didn't participate. I returned at 18, tested out several stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and make “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve qualified for the last round every year since 2022, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was resolved to win this year.

Our global network is like a support system. Our motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It may seem funny, but it’s a true ethos.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Competitors have 60 seconds to put their all – explosive energy, perfect mime, stage magnetism – on an invisible guitar. Judges score you on a scale from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “air-off” between the last two competitors: a tune begins and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I picked an a metal group song for my routine. I listened to it on a loop for multiple weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my limbs loose enough to jump, my fingers fast enough to imitate guitar parts and my back prepared for those moves and leaps. Once competition day arrived, I could sense the music in my being.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had matched with the titleholder from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an final showdown. We went head-to-head to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt relieved because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so excited to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the area exploded.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I lost consciousness from the excitement. Then everyone started chanting Neil Young’s that well-known track and hoisted me on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – alias his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my best pals, was holding me. I cried. I was the first Finnish air guitar international titleholder in two and a half decades. The earlier winner from Finland, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was there, too. He gave me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a family. Our motto is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy. People come from all over the world, and everyone is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, each contestant offers an embrace. Then for a brief period you’re free to be yourself, silly, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and guitarist in a musical act with my family member called the group title, named after Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by British music genres. I’ve been working in bars for a couple of years, and I direct independent videos and song visuals. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I aspire it results in more creative work. The city will be a cultural hub the coming year, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just grateful: for the group, for the ability to compete, and for that budding enthusiast who found a story and thought, “I'd love to try that.”