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At the age of 10, I read about a article in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My parents had participated at the inaugural contest since 1996 – my mum distributed flyers, dad organized the music. Since then, domestic competitions have been staged all across the world, with the winners assembling in Oulu each August.

At the time, I requested permission if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the event was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They believed it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was determined.

As a kid, I was always performing air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My parents were enthusiasts – dad loved The Boss and U2. AC/DC was the initial group I found independently. Angus Young, the lead guitarist, was my inspiration.

When I stepped on stage, I performed my act to the band's that classic track. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, just like the album track, and it hit me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, competing to hundreds of people in the town square, and I was hooked. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a adjudicator one year, and kicked off the show on another occasion, but I stayed out of the contest. I came back at 18, tested out several stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and choose “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve reached the finals 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 motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It may seem funny, but it’s a genuine belief.

The event is intense but joyful. Competitors have a short window to give everything – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, stage magnetism – on an imaginary instrument. Judges score you on a grading system from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I chose an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I listened to it on a loop for multiple weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs loose enough to jump, my fingers nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my back set for those gestures and hops. Once the big day came, I could sense the music in my soul.

After everyone had performed, the scores came in, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was occasion for an final showdown. We competed directly to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. When I heard the song, I felt comforted because it was a tune I recognized, and more than anything I was so excited to play again. When they announced I’d emerged victorious, the area erupted.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then the crowd started chanting the classic tune the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and hoisted me on to their arms. One of the greats – also known as Nordic Thunder – a past winner and one of my closest friends, was holding me. I shed tears. I was Finland’s first air guitar global winner in 25 years. The prior titleholder, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He gave me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

The air guitar community is like a family. The phrase we live by is “Create music, not conflict”. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief. Participants come from all over the world, and everyone is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, all participants offers an embrace. Then for a brief period you’re free to be yourself, silly, the biggest rock star in the world.

Additionally, I am a beat keeper and string player in a group with my brother called the group title, referencing the football manager, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I direct mini movies and performance clips. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I hope it brings more artistic projects. My hometown will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are great prospects.

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