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At the age of 10, I came across a story in my community gazette about the Air Guitar World Championships, held annually every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had participated at the very first contest starting from 1996 – my mum distributed flyers, my dad organized the music. Ever since, national championships have been organized in many nations, with the champions assembling in Oulu annually.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the competition was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They believed it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was resolved.

During childhood, I was always performing air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My parents were lovers of music – my father loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the initial group I discovered on my own. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started yelling “Angus”, just like the live recording, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a music icon. I reached the championship, performing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a adjudicator one year, and started the show on another occasion, but I stayed out of the contest. I came back at 18, tested out several 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 reached the finals every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a support system. Our guiding principle is ‘Make air, not war’. It sounds silly, but it’s a true ethos.

The competition itself is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have one minute to deliver maximum effort – explosive energy, flawless imitation, rock star charisma – on an invisible guitar. The panel rate you on a scale from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the last two competitors: a track is selected and you improvise.

Preparation is everything. I picked an a metal group song for my routine. I had it on repeat for multiple weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my legs flexible enough to leap, my hands quick enough to mimic solos and my spine set for those bends and jumps. Once competition day came, I could feel the song in my bones.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was time for an tiebreaker. We competed directly to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the rock group. As the music started, I felt relieved because it was a tune I recognized, and primarily I was so thrilled to have another go. When they announced I’d triumphed, the square exploded.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then everyone started singing the song Rockin’ in the Free World and raised me up on to their backs. Justin Howard – AKA his performer title – a past winner and one of my best pals, was holding me. I cried. I was Finland’s first air guitar global winner in a quarter-century. The prior titleholder, the former champion, was also present. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a family. Our guiding saying is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a genuine belief. People come from all over the world, and everyone is supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, every competitor shows support. Then for 60 seconds you’re free to be free, silly, the top performer in the world.

Additionally, I am a drummer and musician in a group with my family member called the Southgates, inspired by the football manager, as we’re inspired by British music genres. I’ve been serving drinks for a few years now, and I produce short films and song visuals. Winning hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I aspire it leads to more artistic projects. The city will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are great prospects.

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