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When I was just 10, I read about a story in my community gazette about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My parents had helped out at the pioneering contest back in 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, my father sorted the music. Ever since, national championships have been organized in many nations, with the titleholders assembling in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I inquired with my family if I could participate. Initially they had doubts; the show was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was resolved.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, pretending to play to the iconic rock tunes with my invisible instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – my dad loved The Boss and U2. the Australian rockers was the original act I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the guitar hero, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to the band's that classic track. The crowd started yelling “Angus”, reminiscent of the concert version, and it hit me: so this is to be a rock star. I reached the championship, performing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was captivated. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a adjudicator one year, and started the show another time, but I didn't participate. I returned at 18, tested out several stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and adopt “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve qualified for the last round each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to claim victory this year.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The event is intense but joyful. Participants have a short window to give everything – explosive energy, precise mimicry, rock star charisma – on an invisible guitar. The panel rate you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “air-off” between the last two competitors: a track is selected and you improvise.

Preparation is everything. I chose an a metal group song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs loose enough to jump, my digits nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine set for those bends and jumps. Once the big day dawned, I could feel the song in my bones.

Once all acts were done, the points were announced, and I had drawn with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was moment for an tiebreaker. We faced off to that classic rock anthem by the rock group. Once the track began, I felt relieved because it was a tune I recognized, and more than anything I was so eager to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the venue exploded.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I zoned out from shock. Then everyone started singing Neil Young’s the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and raised me up on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – AKA his stage name – a past winner and one of my dear companions, was hugging me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar global winner in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

Our global network is like a support system. The phrase we live by is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy. Competitors come from globally, and each person is supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, every competitor shows support. Then for one minute you’re able to be uninhibited, humorous, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a drummer and string player in a musical act with my brother called the band name, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re fans of UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I produce short films and performance clips. Winning hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I aspire it results in more creative work. Oulu will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are exciting things ahead.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the community, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who found a story and thought, “I want to do that.”