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When I was just 10, I discovered a article in my community gazette about the Air Guitar World Championships, held annually every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the very first contest back in 1996 – my mother distributed flyers, my father organized the music. Since then, domestic competitions have been organized all across the world, with the champions converging in Oulu every summer.

Initially, I requested permission if I could enter. Initially they had doubts; the competition was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They thought it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was set on it.

In my youth, I was always performing air guitar, acting out to the iconic rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the first band I found independently. the lead guitarist, the guitar hero, was my idol.

When I stepped on stage, I played my set to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started shouting “Angus”, just like the album track, and it struck me: so this is to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, competing to crowds in the public plaza, and I was captivated. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a adjudicator one year, and started the show once more, but I didn't participate. I returned at 18, tried a few different stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and make “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was determined to take the title this year.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy.

The event is intense but joyful. Participants have a short window to deliver maximum effort – dynamic presence, precise mimicry, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. Judges rate you on a grading system from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the last two competitors: a song plays and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I chose an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I listened to it on a loop for weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my lower body flexible enough to jump, my hands quick enough to copy riffs and my back set for those moves and leaps. Once the big day arrived, I could feel the song in my soul.

When the show concluded, the scores came in, and I had matched with the winner from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an final showdown. We competed directly to that classic rock anthem by Guns N’ Roses. As the music started, I felt comforted because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so eager to have another go. Once the results were read I’d won, the area erupted.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I blacked out from shock. Then the crowd started performing the classic tune that well-known track and lifted me on to their arms. A former champion – AKA his stage name – a past winner and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I cried. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar global winner in two and a half decades. The previous Finnish champion, the former champion, was there, too. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “about damn time”.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our guiding saying is “Create music, not conflict”. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy. Participants come from many countries, and each person is helpful and motivating. Prior to performing, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re able to be yourself, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Additionally, I am a drummer and string player in a band with my family member called the Southgates, inspired by the football manager, as we’re inspired by British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I direct mini movies and song visuals. Winning hasn’t altered my routine significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it brings more artistic projects. The city will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are exciting things ahead.

For now, I’m just appreciative: for the group, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who found a story and thought, “I'd love to try that.”