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When I was just 10, I discovered a article in my community gazette about the Global Air Guitar Contest, that happens every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had participated at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – mom gave out flyers, my father managed the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been organized globally, with the winners converging in Oulu annually.

At the time, I requested permission if I could participate. Initially they had doubts; the event was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They believed it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was determined.

As a kid, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My family were music fans – dad loved The Boss and U2. AC/DC was the initial group I discovered on my own. Angus Young, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

As I took the stage, I did my routine to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a rock star. I advanced to the last round, competing to a large audience in Oulu’s market square, and I was hooked. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a referee one year, and opened for the show another time, but I stayed out of the contest. I went back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and adopt “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve reached the finals annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to win this year.

The worldwide group is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It may seem funny, but it’s a genuine belief.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Participants have a short window to give everything – explosive energy, perfect mime, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. The panel evaluate you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “tiebreaker” 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 act. I listened to it on a loop for multiple weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs flexible enough to jump, my hands nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my back ready for those gestures and hops. By the time the event came, I could feel the song in my bones.

After everyone had performed, the results were tallied, and I had tied with the Japanese champion, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an tiebreaker. We faced off to that classic rock anthem by the iconic band. As the music started, I felt comforted because it was a tune I recognized, and above all I was so excited to play again. When they announced I’d emerged victorious, the venue exploded.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then the crowd started chanting the classic tune that well-known track and raised me up on to their shoulders. A former champion – alias his performer title – a former champion and one of my best pals, was embracing me. I wept. I was Finland’s first air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon 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 true way of life. People come from all over the world, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, each contestant shows support. Then for 60 seconds you’re free to be free, playful, the top performer in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and musician in a band with my sibling called the band name, referencing the football manager, as we’re fans of UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been working in bars for a couple of years, and I create independent videos and performance clips. The victory hasn’t altered my routine significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it results in more artistic projects. My hometown will be a cultural hub soon, so there are great prospects.

At present, I’m just grateful: for the network, for the opportunity to play, and for that little kid who picked up a newspaper and thought, “I want to do that.”