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At the age of 10, I discovered a feature in my community gazette about the Air Guitar World Championships, which take place every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had participated at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – mom distributed flyers, my father organized the music. Since then, domestic competitions have been staged all across the world, with the champions converging in Oulu each August.

Back then, I inquired with my family if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the competition was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They thought it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was resolved.

As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My parents were music fans – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the first band I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my idol.

As I took the stage, I did my routine to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, just like the album track, and it struck me: this is what it feels like to be a guitar hero. I advanced to the last round, performing to hundreds of people in Oulu’s market square, and I was captivated. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I didn't participate. I went back at 18, tested out several stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve qualified for the last round each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a family. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. It may seem funny, but it’s a true ethos.

The contest is competitive but uplifting. Participants have 60 seconds to give everything – dynamic presence, perfect mime, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. The panel evaluate you on a scale from four to six. In the case of a tie, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you create on the spot.

Preparation is everything. I selected an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I listened to it on a loop for weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my legs prepared enough to jump, my hands fast enough to copy riffs and my upper body ready for those bends and jumps. Once the event dawned, I could internalize the track in my soul.

After everyone had performed, the results were tallied, and I had drawn with the titleholder from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an tiebreaker. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the rock group. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was a tune I recognized, and primarily I was so excited to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the area exploded.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then all present started singing Neil Young’s Rockin’ in the Free World and raised me up on to their backs. One of the greats – also known as his stage name – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I cried. I was the first Finnish air guitar world champion in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was also present. He offered me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a support system. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from many countries, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for one minute you’re allowed to be uninhibited, silly, the biggest rock star in the world.

Besides that, I'm a drummer and string player in a group with my family member called the band name, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by British music genres. I’ve been serving drinks for a few years now, and I direct mini movies and music videos. The title hasn’t altered my routine significantly but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it brings more artistic projects. Oulu will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are promising opportunities.

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