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When I was just 10, I came across a feature in my community gazette about the World Air Guitar Competition, held annually every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had participated at the inaugural contest starting from 1996 – my mother gave out flyers, dad sorted the music. Since then, national championships have been staged in many nations, with the champions gathering in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I inquired with my family if I could participate. Initially they had doubts; the show was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They believed it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was resolved.

During childhood, I was always “playing” air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My family were enthusiasts – my father loved Springsteen and U2. the Australian rockers was the first band I found independently. the lead guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I did my routine to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a rock star. I advanced to the last round, performing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was addicted. 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 stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, tried a few different stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and adopt “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve qualified for the last round annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to win this year.

The worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a true ethos.

The competition itself is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have a short window to put their all – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, stage magnetism – on an invisible guitar. Adjudicators score you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the last two competitors: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I selected an Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I played it repeatedly for weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my legs loose enough to leap, my hands fast enough to copy riffs and my spine set for those gestures and hops. When competition day dawned, I could internalize the track in my being.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had tied with the Japanese champion, the Japanese titleholder – it was time for an final showdown. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. As the music started, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so thrilled to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the area went wild.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from shock. Then the crowd started chanting Neil Young’s that well-known track and lifted me on to their arms. One of the greats – also known as his stage name – a past winner and one of my dear companions, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar world champion in a quarter-century. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was there, too. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a real philosophy. People come from many countries, and all involved is positive and uplifting. Prior to performing, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be yourself, humorous, the top performer in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and guitarist in a band with my family member called the Southgates, inspired by the sports figure, as we’re influenced by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been working in bars for a few years now, and I direct independent videos and music videos. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life significantly but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I aspire it leads to more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a cultural hub the coming year, so there are great prospects.

For now, I’m just thankful: for the group, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “I'd love to try that.”