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Back when I was 10, I came across a article in my local paper about the Air Guitar World Championships, which take place every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had participated at the pioneering contest starting from 1996 – my mum gave out flyers, dad managed the music. Since then, national championships have been held globally, with the winners assembling in Oulu annually.

Initially, I inquired with my family if I could enter. Initially they had doubts; the show was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. 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 biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. Mom and Dad were music fans – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my idol.

As I took the stage, I performed my act to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, just like the live recording, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I reached the championship, performing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was captivated. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a adjudicator one year, and started the show once more, but I stayed out of the contest. I went back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve qualified for the last round each competition since then, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was resolved to win this year.

The worldwide group is like a family. The saying we live by is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It may seem funny, but it’s a true ethos.

The event is high-energy yet fun. Participants have 60 seconds to give everything – explosive energy, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. Adjudicators rate you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “air-off” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I chose an a metal group song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my limbs prepared enough to leap, my fingers fast enough to imitate guitar parts and my back prepared for those moves and leaps. When the big day came, I could feel the song in my soul.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had drawn with the titleholder from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was time for an final showdown. We went head-to-head to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. When I heard the song, I felt relieved because it was one that I knew, and more than anything I was so thrilled to have another go. As they declared I’d emerged victorious, the area erupted.

My memory is blurry. I think I blacked out from shock. Then the crowd started singing Neil Young’s that well-known track and lifted me on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – alias his performer title – a past winner and one of my best pals, was holding me. I shed tears. I was Finland’s first air guitar global winner in 25 years. The prior titleholder, the former champion, was also present. He offered me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “long overdue”.

Our global network is like a support system. The phrase we live by is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from all over the world, and everyone is supportive and encouraging. Before you go on stage, all participants comes and hugs you. Then for one minute you’re allowed to be free, humorous, the biggest rock star in the world.

I’m also a drummer and string player in a group with my sibling called the band name, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re influenced by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been working in bars for a couple of years, and I direct mini movies and song visuals. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it brings more creative work. My hometown will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are great prospects.

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, “I want to do that.”