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Back when I was 10, I discovered a feature in my local paper about the Air Guitar World Championships, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had participated at the very first contest since 1996 – my mother gave out flyers, my dad sorted the music. Since then, country-level contests have been held in many nations, with the winners assembling in Oulu every summer.

At the time, I requested permission if I could enter. They weren't sure at first; the competition was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They believed it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was set on it.

In my youth, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were enthusiasts – my father loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the first band I discovered on my own. the lead guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I did my routine to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started shouting “Angus”, just like the album track, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a rock star. I advanced to the last round, performing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was captivated. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a referee one year, and started the show once more, but I didn’t compete. I returned at 18, experimented with various stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and make “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve qualified for the last round every year since 2022, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was resolved to win this year.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. The saying we live by is ‘Make air, not war’. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy.

The contest is competitive but uplifting. Participants have one minute to deliver maximum effort – dynamic presence, precise mimicry, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. The panel evaluate you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the last two competitors: a song plays and you create on the spot.

Preparation is everything. I selected an a metal group song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my limbs flexible enough to jump, my fingers nimble enough to copy riffs and my upper body ready for those moves and leaps. By the time the event dawned, I could feel the song in my being.

When the show concluded, the scores came in, and I had tied with the titleholder from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was moment for an air-off. We went head-to-head to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt comforted because it was a tune I recognized, and more than anything I was so eager to play again. When they announced I’d won, the venue exploded.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I blacked out from the excitement. Then the crowd started performing Neil Young’s that well-known track and lifted me on to their backs. One of the greats – AKA his stage name – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was embracing me. I cried. I was the first Finnish air guitar global winner in a quarter-century. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was also present. He offered me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our guiding saying is “Create music, not conflict”. It sounds silly, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from all over the world, and each person is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, all participants shows support. Then for a brief period you’re free to be uninhibited, silly, the biggest rock star in the world.

I’m also a beat keeper and guitarist in a group with my family member called the group title, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I produce independent videos and music videos. Winning hasn’t changed my day-to-day life too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it brings more creative work. My hometown will be a designated cultural center next year, so there are promising opportunities.

For now, I’m just appreciative: for the community, for the opportunity to play, and for that little kid who read an article and thought, “I'd love to try that.”