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At the age of 10, I came across a feature in my local paper about the Air Guitar World Championships, which take place every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the pioneering contest back in 1996 – mom handed out flyers, my father managed the music. Since then, domestic competitions have been held all across the world, with the champions converging in Oulu each August.

Initially, I requested permission if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the competition was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They felt it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always performing air guitar, acting out to the biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My parents were lovers of music – my father loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the original act I found independently. the lead guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my idol.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it hit me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, competing to crowds in the town square, and I was captivated. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a adjudicator one year, and opened for the show on another occasion, but I didn't participate. I came back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and make “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve qualified for the last round annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was resolved to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a support system. Our guiding principle is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a real philosophy.

The competition itself is high-energy yet fun. Participants have a short window to give everything – high-powered performance, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. Adjudicators score you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. In the case of a tie, there’s an “air-off” between the last two competitors: a song plays and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I selected an a metal group song for my routine. I had it on repeat for weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my legs loose enough to jump, my digits quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my upper body set for those gestures and hops. When competition day came, I could internalize the track in my being.

Once all acts were done, the points were announced, and I had drawn with the Japanese champion, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an air-off. We competed directly to that classic rock anthem by the iconic band. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was a tune I recognized, and primarily I was so excited to play again. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the venue went wild.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I blacked out from shock. Then all present started singing the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their arms. A former champion – alias his performer title – a past winner and one of my dear companions, was hugging me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar world champion in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was also present. He bestowed upon me the biggest hug and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a family. The phrase we live by is “Create music, not conflict”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a genuine belief. Competitors come from many countries, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. Before you go on stage, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re able to be yourself, silly, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Besides that, I'm a percussionist and guitarist in a group with my family member called the group title, inspired by the football manager, as we’re fans of Britpop and new wave. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I create mini movies and music videos. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life drastically but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it results in more creative work. Oulu will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are exciting things ahead.

For now, I’m just appreciative: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”