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When I was just 10, I came across a feature in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, held annually every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the pioneering contest starting from 1996 – my mother distributed flyers, my dad managed the music. From that point, country-level contests have been held all across the world, with the titleholders converging in Oulu every summer.

Initially, I requested permission if I could compete. They weren't sure at first; the show was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. Mom and Dad were music fans – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

As I took the stage, I played my set to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started shouting “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, playing to a large audience in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a referee one year, and started the show another time, but I didn't participate. I went back at 18, tested out several stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve qualified for the last round each competition since then, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was resolved to claim victory this year.

Our global network is like a family. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy.

The contest is intense but joyful. Contestants have a short window to give everything – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, rock star charisma – on an invisible guitar. Judges score you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “air-off” between the remaining participants: a song plays and you improvise.

Training is crucial. I chose an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I had it on repeat for multiple weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my limbs flexible enough to jump, my fingers quick enough to mimic solos and my back ready for those bends and jumps. When competition day dawned, I could sense the music in my bones.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had matched with the titleholder from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was moment for an air-off. We competed directly to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt comforted because it was one that I knew, and above all I was so excited to have another go. As they declared I’d won, the venue erupted.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I zoned out from shock. Then everyone started singing the classic tune the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and hoisted me on to their arms. Justin Howard – alias Nordic Thunder – a former champion and one of my best pals, was embracing me. I wept. I was the first Finnish air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “long overdue”.

Our global network is like a family. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. People come from many countries, and all involved is helpful and motivating. Prior to performing, each contestant offers an embrace. Then for one minute you’re free to be uninhibited, humorous, the top performer in the world.

Additionally, I am a beat keeper and musician in a group with my family member called the group title, named after Gareth Southgate, as we’re influenced by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been working in bars for a few years now, and I create independent videos and song visuals. The victory hasn’t changed my day-to-day life significantly but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it brings more artistic projects. Oulu will be a cultural hub next year, so there are great prospects.

At present, I’m just appreciative: for the group, for the ability to compete, and for that budding enthusiast who found a story and thought, “That's for me.”