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At the age of 10, I discovered a story in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, held annually every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My parents had volunteered at the inaugural contest since 1996 – mom distributed flyers, my dad managed the music. Since then, domestic competitions have been organized globally, with the champions assembling in Oulu each August.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could compete. They weren't sure at first; the event was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They believed it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was resolved.

In my youth, I was always performing air guitar, pretending to play to the biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My parents were lovers of music – my dad loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the original act I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to the band's that classic track. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, reminiscent of the concert version, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a rock star. I reached the championship, performing to crowds in the town square, and I was hooked. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a referee one year, and started the show once more, 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 decided to own it and make “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was determined to take the title this year.

The worldwide group is like a family. Our guiding principle is ‘Make air, not war’. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy.

The contest is competitive but uplifting. Participants have 60 seconds to give everything – dynamic presence, precise mimicry, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. The panel score you on a point range from a specific numeric range. When it's a draw, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the remaining participants: a song plays and you create on the spot.

Training is crucial. I picked an Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my lower body flexible enough to bound, my hands quick enough to mimic solos and my spine ready for those gestures and hops. When the big day came, I could internalize the track in my soul.

Once all acts were done, the scores came in, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an final showdown. We went head-to-head to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the rock group. When I heard the song, I felt comforted because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so eager to have another go. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the square erupted.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then everyone started singing Neil Young’s Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – also known as his performer title – a past winner and one of my best pals, was embracing me. I cried. I was the first Finnish air guitar international titleholder in two and a half decades. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was also present. He offered me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our guiding saying is “Make air, not war”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a real philosophy. People come from all over the world, and everyone is positive and uplifting. Prior to performing, all participants comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re able to be yourself, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Besides that, I'm a percussionist and musician in a band with my family member called the band name, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I direct independent videos and song visuals. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I aspire it brings more artistic projects. The city will be a cultural hub next year, so there are promising opportunities.

For now, I’m just grateful: for the community, for the opportunity to play, and for that little kid who picked up a newspaper and thought, “I'd love to try that.”