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When I was just 10, I came across a story in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had helped out at the very first contest starting from 1996 – mom handed out flyers, dad sorted the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been organized in many nations, with the winners converging in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I inquired with my family if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the event was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They thought it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was resolved.

In my youth, I was always performing air guitar, pretending to play to the iconic rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My family were lovers of music – dad loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the original act I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the frontman guitarist, was my idol.

When I stepped on stage, I performed my act to AC/DC’s that classic track. The audience started shouting “Angus”, similar to the album track, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, competing to a large audience in Oulu’s market square, and I was hooked. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a judge one year, and started the show on another occasion, but I didn't participate. I went back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I embraced it and make “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve reached the finals every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was set to take the title this year.

The worldwide group is like a family. Our guiding principle is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It sounds silly, but it’s a true ethos.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Participants have one minute to give everything – high-powered performance, flawless imitation, rock star charisma – 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 “air-off” between the final two contestants: a track is selected and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I chose an Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I played it repeatedly for multiple weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my limbs loose enough to jump, my hands quick enough to mimic solos and my spine set for those gestures and hops. Once the big day arrived, I could sense the music in my soul.

When the show concluded, the scores came in, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, the Japanese titleholder – it was moment for an air-off. We faced off to that classic rock anthem by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so excited to perform one more time. As they declared I’d won, the venue erupted.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from shock. Then all present started singing the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their shoulders. One of the greats – also known as his performer title – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I wept. I was the first Finnish air guitar world champion in two and a half decades. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was there, too. He gave me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “finally happening”.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a real philosophy. Participants come from all over the world, and each person is positive and uplifting. Prior to performing, all participants offers an embrace. Then for a brief period you’re able to be free, humorous, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Besides that, I'm a percussionist and string player in a group with my sibling called the Southgates, referencing the football manager, as we’re influenced by British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I direct mini movies and performance clips. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities too much but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I hope it leads to more creative work. Oulu will be a designated cultural center next year, so there are exciting things ahead.

At present, I’m just thankful: for the group, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who read an article and thought, “I want to do that.”