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Back when I was 10, I discovered a article in my community gazette about the Global Air Guitar Contest, which take place every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My parents had participated at the inaugural contest starting from 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, my father organized the music. Since then, domestic competitions have been staged globally, with the titleholders converging in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I requested permission if I could participate. 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 overwhelming atmosphere, but I was determined.

As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, acting out to the biggest rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My parents were lovers of music – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the initial group I found independently. the lead guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started chanting “Angus”, reminiscent of the album track, and it hit me: this must be to be a music icon. I reached the championship, playing to hundreds of people in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show once more, but I didn't participate. I returned at 18, experimented with various stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve qualified for the last round each competition since then, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was determined to take the title this year.

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

The competition itself is intense but joyful. Participants have 60 seconds to put their all – explosive energy, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators score you on a scale from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you create on the spot.

Getting ready is key. I chose an Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I listened to it on a loop for multiple weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs flexible enough to bound, my digits fast enough to imitate guitar parts and my back set for those bends and jumps. Once competition day came, I could internalize the track in my bones.

Once all acts were done, the results were tallied, and I had drawn with the winner from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was time for an final showdown. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. When I heard the song, I felt relieved because it was one that I knew, and more than anything I was so eager to have another go. When they announced I’d triumphed, the square went wild.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then the crowd started performing the song that well-known track and raised me up on to their backs. Justin Howard – alias Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my dear companions, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was Finland’s first air guitar international titleholder in a quarter-century. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was also present. He offered me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a true way of life. Competitors come from all over the world, and everyone is supportive and encouraging. Before you go on stage, all participants shows support. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be free, silly, the biggest rock star in the world.

Besides that, I'm a drummer and musician in a band with my brother called the band name, referencing the sports figure, as we’re inspired by British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I direct independent videos and music videos. Winning hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it leads to more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a European capital of culture the coming year, so there are exciting things ahead.

For now, I’m just thankful: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who picked up a newspaper and thought, “I want to do that.”