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At the age of 10, I came across a article in my community gazette about the World Air Guitar Competition, held annually every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – my mum distributed flyers, my dad managed the music. From that point, country-level contests have been held in many nations, with the winners gathering in Oulu every summer.

Initially, I requested permission if I could enter. They weren't sure at first; the competition was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They thought it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My parents were music fans – my father loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the first band I discovered on my own. Angus Young, the lead guitarist, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to AC/DC’s that classic track. The spectators started chanting “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it hit me: so this is to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, performing to hundreds of people in the public plaza, and I was captivated. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a adjudicator one year, and kicked off the show on another occasion, but I stayed out of the contest. I went back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but people kept calling me “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 placed second, so I was set to win this year.

The air guitar community is like a support system. Our motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It sounds silly, but it’s a true ethos.

The contest is high-energy yet fun. Competitors have one minute to put their all – dynamic presence, precise mimicry, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. The panel rate you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. In the case of a tie, there’s an “air-off” between the last two competitors: a song plays and you improvise.

Training is crucial. 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 flexible enough to bound, my fingers nimble enough to copy riffs and my back ready for those gestures and hops. When competition day came, I could sense the music in my being.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – 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 relieved because it was familiar to me, and more than anything I was so excited to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d won, the area exploded.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then all present started performing the song the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and lifted me on to their arms. One of the greats – alias his stage name – a previous titleholder and one of my dear companions, was embracing me. I wept. I was the first Finnish air guitar global winner in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the former champion, was there, too. He gave me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief. Participants come from many countries, and each person is positive and uplifting. Prior to performing, each contestant shows support. Then for 60 seconds you’re able to be uninhibited, silly, the biggest rock star in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and string player in a band with my sibling called the band name, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I direct short films and song visuals. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it leads to more creative work. Oulu will be a designated cultural center the coming year, so there are great prospects.

At present, I’m just grateful: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “That's for me.”