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At the age of 10, I discovered a article in my community gazette about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the very first contest since 1996 – mom gave out flyers, dad managed the music. Ever since, national championships have been staged all across the world, with the champions gathering in Oulu each August.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could participate. At first they were hesitant; the event was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was set on it.

In my youth, I was always “playing” air guitar, pretending to play to the iconic rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – my father loved Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the first band I discovered on my own. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my inspiration.

As I took the stage, I played my set to the band's that classic track. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it struck me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I reached the championship, competing to crowds in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a judge one year, and opened for the show once more, but I didn't participate. I came back at 18, tested out several stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and adopt “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve made it to the final every year since 2022, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was resolved to win this year.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a real philosophy.

The event is high-energy yet fun. Contestants have one minute to put their all – dynamic presence, perfect mime, rock star charisma – on an invisible guitar. Adjudicators evaluate you on a point range from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a song plays and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I chose an a metal group song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my lower body flexible enough to leap, my fingers quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my upper body ready for those moves and leaps. Once the event arrived, I could sense the music in my soul.

After everyone had performed, the results were tallied, and I had drawn with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an air-off. We went head-to-head to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the rock group. Once the track began, I felt comforted because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so eager to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d won, the square went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I blacked out from the excitement. Then everyone started performing Neil Young’s that well-known track and lifted me on to their arms. A former champion – alias his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my best pals, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the first Finnish air guitar world champion in a quarter-century. The prior titleholder, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was also present. He gave me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our guiding saying is “Make air, not war”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a genuine belief. Participants come from globally, and everyone is positive and uplifting. As you prepare to compete, each contestant offers an embrace. Then for 60 seconds you’re able to be free, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and string player in a group with my family member called the Southgates, named after the sports figure, as we’re influenced by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I produce independent videos and music videos. The victory hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it leads to more innovative opportunities. The city will be a cultural hub soon, so there are great prospects.

At present, I’m just grateful: for the network, for the chance to perform, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “I want to do that.”