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Back when I was 10, I read about a story in my local paper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, that happens every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had participated at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – mom distributed flyers, my father organized the music. Since then, domestic competitions have been held globally, with the titleholders converging in Oulu every summer.

Initially, I inquired with my family if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the show was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They thought it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was resolved.

In my youth, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – my dad loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the first band I stumbled upon myself. the lead guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my idol.

As I took the stage, I performed my act to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it struck me: so this is to be a rock star. I reached the championship, playing to a large audience in the town square, and I was hooked. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a judge one year, and opened for the show on another occasion, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, experimented with various stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I embraced it and make “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve qualified for the last round annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I came second, so I was resolved to claim victory this year.

The worldwide group is like a support system. The saying we live by is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The event is high-energy yet fun. Contestants have 60 seconds to give everything – explosive energy, perfect mime, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. The panel rate you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you improvise.

Training is crucial. I selected an Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I played it repeatedly for weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs loose enough to bound, my fingers quick enough to mimic solos and my upper body set for those bends and jumps. Once the big day arrived, I could sense the music in my bones.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an air-off. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. As the music started, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and primarily I was so eager to perform one more time. When they announced I’d emerged victorious, the square went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from shock. Then everyone started chanting the song that well-known track and hoisted me on to their backs. A former champion – alias his performer title – a past winner and one of my best pals, was holding me. I cried. I was Finland’s first air guitar world champion in two and a half decades. The prior titleholder, the former champion, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the biggest hug and said it was “finally happening”.

The air guitar community is like a support system. The phrase we live by is “Create music, not conflict”. 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 shows support. Then for 60 seconds you’re able to be uninhibited, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and string player in a group with my sibling called the band name, named after Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I produce mini movies and song visuals. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I hope it results in more artistic projects. My hometown will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are promising opportunities.

Currently, I’m just grateful: for the community, for the opportunity to play, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”