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At the age of 10, I came across a article in my community gazette about the Air Guitar World Championships, held annually every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the pioneering contest since 1996 – my mother handed out flyers, my father managed the music. Ever since, national championships have been staged globally, with the winners gathering in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I inquired with my family if I could participate. At first they were hesitant; the show was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They thought it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was determined.

As a kid, I was always performing air guitar, miming along to the biggest rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My family were enthusiasts – dad loved Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the original act I stumbled upon myself. the lead guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

As I took the stage, I did my routine to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started chanting “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it struck me: this must be to be a guitar hero. I reached the championship, performing to a large audience 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 referee one year, and kicked off the show once more, but I didn’t compete. I went back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and adopt “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve qualified for the last round annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was determined to claim victory this year.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our guiding principle is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It may seem funny, but it’s a genuine belief.

The contest is intense but joyful. Contestants have one minute to give everything – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. Judges rate you on a grading system from four to six. In the case of a tie, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you create on the spot.

Training is crucial. I picked an Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I had it on repeat for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my lower body prepared enough to leap, my digits nimble enough to mimic solos and my upper body prepared for those bends and jumps. Once the big day dawned, I could internalize the track in my soul.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had tied with the Japanese champion, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an air-off. We faced off to the Guns N’ Roses hit by Guns N’ Roses. Once the track began, I felt at ease because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so excited to play again. Once the results were read I’d triumphed, the square went wild.

The moment is hazy. I think I lost consciousness from shock. Then all present started performing Neil Young’s that well-known track and hoisted me on to their arms. One of the greats – AKA Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my best pals, was hugging me. I shed tears. I was the first Finnish air guitar international titleholder in two and a half decades. The previous Finnish champion, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was also present. He offered me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

The air guitar community is like a support system. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief. Participants come from globally, and everyone is helpful and motivating. As you prepare to compete, every competitor comes and hugs you. Then for one minute you’re able to be yourself, silly, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Besides that, I'm a percussionist and guitarist in a musical act with my family member called the Southgates, referencing the sports figure, as we’re influenced by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a couple of years, and I produce short films and music videos. The victory hasn’t altered my routine significantly but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I aspire it leads to more artistic projects. My hometown will be a European capital of culture the coming year, so there are great prospects.

For now, I’m just appreciative: 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.”