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Back when I was 10, I discovered a feature in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, held annually every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the pioneering contest back in 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, my dad managed the music. Ever since, domestic competitions have been staged all across the world, with the titleholders assembling in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the show was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was determined.

As a kid, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were lovers of music – my father loved Springsteen and U2. the Australian rockers was the first band I found independently. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I did my routine to AC/DC’s that classic track. The audience started shouting “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it dawned on me: so this is to be a guitar hero. I made it to the finals, competing to hundreds of people in Oulu’s market square, and I was hooked. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a adjudicator one year, and opened for the show once more, but I didn’t compete. I came back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I embraced it and adopt “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve reached the finals each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was determined to win this year.

The worldwide group is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief.

The competition itself is high-energy yet fun. Participants have one minute to give everything – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators score you on a point range from a specific numeric range. If scores are equal, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you create on the spot.

Preparation is everything. I selected an Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my limbs flexible enough to jump, my fingers nimble enough to mimic solos and my spine set for those gestures and hops. By the time the big day arrived, I could sense the music in my bones.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had tied with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was occasion for an tiebreaker. We faced off to that classic rock anthem by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt comforted because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so excited to have another go. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the venue went wild.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I lost consciousness from shock. Then everyone started performing Neil Young’s the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and hoisted me on to their arms. Justin Howard – also known as his performer title – a former champion and one of my closest friends, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar global winner in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was also present. He bestowed upon me the biggest hug and said it was “finally happening”.

The air guitar community is like a support system. Our motto is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy. Competitors come from many countries, and each person is positive and uplifting. Prior to performing, every competitor comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re able to be uninhibited, humorous, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and string player in a band with my sibling called the Southgates, referencing the football manager, as we’re fans of UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been working in bars for a few years now, and I create short films and song visuals. Winning hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I aspire it leads to more artistic projects. My hometown will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are promising opportunities.

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