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When I was just 10, I discovered a article in my community gazette about the Air Guitar World Championships, which take place every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My parents had volunteered at the pioneering contest starting from 1996 – mom gave out flyers, my father sorted the music. Since then, country-level contests have been staged all across the world, with the winners gathering in Oulu each August.

Back then, I requested permission if I could compete. They weren't sure at first; 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 set on it.

In my youth, I was always performing air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. Mom and Dad were enthusiasts – my dad loved Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my hero.

When I stepped on stage, I played my set to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started yelling “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it hit me: this is what it feels like to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, performing to crowds in the public plaza, and I was captivated. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a referee one year, and opened for the show another time, but I didn't participate. I came back at 18, tested out several stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and choose “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve made it to the final every year since 2022, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was determined to win this year.

The worldwide group is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy.

The competition itself is high-energy yet fun. Competitors have a short window to give everything – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, rock star charisma – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators rate you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the last two competitors: a song plays and you improvise.

Training is crucial. I picked an a metal group song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for multiple weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my limbs loose enough to leap, my hands fast enough to copy riffs and my back prepared for those bends and jumps. Once the big day dawned, I could sense the music in my being.

When the show concluded, the scores came in, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an tiebreaker. We competed directly to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the rock group. Once the track began, I felt at ease because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so eager to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d triumphed, the area erupted.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then the crowd started singing Neil Young’s the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and hoisted me on to their shoulders. A former champion – AKA his performer title – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was also present. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a family. Our guiding saying is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy. Participants come from all over the world, and each person is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be yourself, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Besides that, I'm a percussionist and guitarist in a band with my brother called the band name, referencing the football manager, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been working in bars for a short time, and I produce independent videos and music videos. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I hope it results in more artistic projects. My hometown will be a cultural hub next year, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just grateful: for the community, for the ability to compete, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “I want to do that.”