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At the age of 10, I discovered a article in my local paper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, held annually every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had participated at the very first contest starting from 1996 – my mum distributed flyers, dad managed the music. From that point, country-level contests have been staged globally, with the winners gathering in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the competition was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They believed it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was resolved.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, acting out to the biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were music fans – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. AC/DC was the original act I found independently. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my idol.

As I took the stage, I played my set to AC/DC’s that classic track. The spectators started chanting “Angus”, just like the album track, and it hit me: so this is to be a guitar hero. I reached the championship, performing to hundreds of people in Oulu’s market square, and I was captivated. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a judge one year, and opened for the show on another occasion, but I didn’t compete. I came back at 18, tested out several stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I embraced it and adopt “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was determined to claim victory this year.

The air guitar community is like a family. Our motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief.

The competition itself is intense but joyful. Contestants have one minute to give everything – high-powered performance, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. Judges evaluate you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. In the case of a tie, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Preparation is everything. I selected an Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs loose enough to leap, my hands quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my upper body set for those bends and jumps. By the time the big day arrived, I could feel the song in my soul.

After everyone had performed, the results were tallied, and I had drawn with the winner from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was occasion for an tiebreaker. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses. When I heard the song, I felt relieved because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so thrilled to play again. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the venue exploded.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then the crowd started singing the song that well-known track and lifted me on to their shoulders. One of the greats – AKA his stage name – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the first Finnish air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was also present. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a true way of life. People come from globally, and everyone is helpful and motivating. As you prepare to compete, all participants shows support. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be uninhibited, silly, the top performer in the world.

I’m also a percussionist 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 working in bars for a couple of years, and I produce mini movies and performance clips. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I aspire it results in more innovative opportunities. Oulu will be a cultural hub next year, so there are great prospects.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the community, for the opportunity to play, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “I want to do that.”