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Back when I was 10, I discovered a article in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had helped out at the very first contest back in 1996 – mom handed out flyers, my father managed the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been organized all across the world, with the champions assembling in Oulu each August.

Back then, I requested permission if I could enter. They weren't sure at first; the show was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They felt it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always performing air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. Mom and Dad were enthusiasts – dad loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the frontman guitarist, was my hero.

When I stepped on stage, I played my set to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, just like the live recording, and it hit 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 earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a adjudicator one year, and opened for the show on another occasion, but I didn’t compete. I came back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and choose “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve qualified for the last round every year since 2022, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was determined to take the title this year.

Our global network is like a family. Our guiding principle is ‘Create music, not conflict’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The competition itself is intense but joyful. Contestants have 60 seconds to put their all – dynamic presence, perfect mime, rock star charisma – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators evaluate you on a point range from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a tune begins and you improvise.

Training is crucial. I chose an a metal group song for my act. I listened to it on a loop for a long time. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my legs prepared enough to jump, my hands quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine ready for those bends and jumps. When the big day came, I could feel the song in my soul.

Once all acts were done, the results were tallied, and I had tied with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an final showdown. We competed directly to Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses. As the music started, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and primarily I was so eager to have another go. As they declared I’d triumphed, the square exploded.

My memory is blurry. I think I lost consciousness from surprise. Then all present started singing the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their backs. Justin Howard – alias his performer title – a past winner and one of my dear companions, was hugging me. I shed tears. I was Finland’s first air guitar global winner in a quarter-century. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was also present. He bestowed upon me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.

The air guitar community is like a support system. 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 supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, each contestant offers an embrace. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be uninhibited, playful, the biggest rock star in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and musician in a band with my brother called the band name, referencing the football manager, as we’re influenced by British music genres. I’ve been serving drinks for a few years now, and I direct short films and performance clips. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I wish it leads to more creative work. Oulu will be a cultural hub next year, so there are great prospects.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the network, for the chance to perform, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”