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When I was just 10, I discovered a feature in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the pioneering contest since 1996 – my mum gave out flyers, dad managed the music. Ever since, national championships have been organized all across the world, with the titleholders converging in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could enter. At first they were hesitant; the competition was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They felt it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My family were music fans – my father loved Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the original act I discovered on my own. the lead guitarist, the guitar hero, was my idol.

Upon entering the spotlight, I did my routine to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started yelling “Angus”, similar to the album track, and it dawned on me: so this is to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, playing to hundreds of people in Oulu’s market square, and I was hooked. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a adjudicator one year, and kicked off the show on another occasion, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, tried a few different stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve reached the finals each competition since then, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was determined to win this year.

Our global network is like a support system. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It may seem funny, but it’s a genuine belief.

The contest is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have a short window to give everything – explosive energy, perfect mime, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. Judges score you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the remaining participants: a tune begins and you create on the spot.

Training is crucial. I selected an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I had it on repeat for multiple weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my lower body loose enough to bound, my digits quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine ready for those gestures and hops. Once competition day dawned, I could sense the music in my being.

When the show concluded, the results were tallied, and I had drawn with the Japanese champion, the Japanese titleholder – it was time for an final showdown. We competed directly to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. As the music started, I felt comforted because it was a tune I recognized, and more than anything I was so eager to have another go. As they declared I’d emerged victorious, the venue erupted.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from shock. Then the crowd started chanting the song that well-known track and hoisted me on to their backs. Justin Howard – AKA Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was embracing me. I cried. I was Finland’s first air guitar international titleholder in a quarter-century. The earlier winner from Finland, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was also present. He gave me the biggest hug and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a support system. The phrase we live by is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a real philosophy. Participants come from globally, and all involved is positive and uplifting. Prior to performing, every competitor comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be yourself, playful, the biggest rock star in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and guitarist in a group with my brother called the group title, named after Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I produce mini movies and music videos. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life too much but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it leads to more creative work. My hometown will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are exciting things ahead.

For now, I’m just grateful: for the community, for the chance to perform, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “I'd love to try that.”