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When I was just 10, I came across a feature in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My parents had helped out at the very first contest starting from 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, my dad managed the music. From that point, country-level contests have been held globally, with the champions assembling in Oulu annually.

At the time, I inquired with my family if I could enter. They weren't sure at first; the competition was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was resolved.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My family were lovers of music – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the Australian rockers was the original act I found independently. the lead guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my idol.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, reminiscent of the concert version, and it hit me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, playing to crowds in the town square, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a judge one year, and opened for the show on another occasion, but I stayed out of the contest. I came back at 18, tested out several stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve reached the finals every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was set to win this year.

The air guitar community is like a family. The saying we live by is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It may seem funny, but it’s a true ethos.

The event is intense but joyful. Contestants have one minute to deliver maximum effort – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, stage magnetism – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators rate you on a point range from four to six. In the case of a tie, there’s an “air-off” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you create on the spot.

Getting ready is key. I chose an a metal group song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs flexible enough to jump, my digits fast enough to copy riffs and my spine ready for those bends and jumps. When competition day dawned, I could internalize the track in my bones.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had drawn with the winner from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an tiebreaker. We went head-to-head to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the iconic band. When I heard the song, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and more than anything I was so excited to play again. Once the results were read I’d triumphed, the venue exploded.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then the crowd started chanting the song that well-known track and raised me up on to their backs. One of the greats – alias his performer title – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was embracing me. I wept. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The prior titleholder, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was in attendance as well. He offered me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a real philosophy. Participants come from globally, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, every competitor offers an embrace. Then for 60 seconds you’re able to be yourself, humorous, the top performer in the world.

Additionally, I am a drummer and musician in a group with my brother called the band name, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re influenced by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I create mini movies and performance clips. The title hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I aspire it brings more creative work. The city will be a cultural hub next year, so there are exciting things ahead.

For now, I’m just thankful: for the community, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who picked up a newspaper and thought, “I'd love to try that.”