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When I was just 10, I read about a article in my local paper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, held annually every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had helped out at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, my father organized the music. Ever since, national championships have been held globally, with the winners assembling in Oulu annually.

Initially, I inquired with my family if I could participate. Initially they had doubts; the event was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They thought it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.

In my youth, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the biggest rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My parents were enthusiasts – my father loved The Boss and U2. the band AC/DC was the original act I discovered on my own. the lead guitarist, the frontman guitarist, was my idol.

As I took the stage, I performed my act to AC/DC’s that classic track. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, just like the album track, and it struck me: so this is to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, competing to a large audience in the town square, and I was captivated. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a judge one year, and started the show on another occasion, but I didn't participate. I returned at 18, tried a few different stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and adopt “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve reached the finals each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was resolved to claim victory this year.

The air guitar community is like a support system. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It may seem funny, but it’s a true ethos.

The event is intense but joyful. Contestants have a short window to deliver maximum effort – explosive energy, perfect mime, stage magnetism – on an imaginary instrument. Judges score you on a scale from a specific numeric range. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you create on the spot.

Getting ready is key. I picked an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I played it repeatedly for weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my limbs loose enough to jump, my hands quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my back prepared for those moves and leaps. When the big day dawned, I could sense the music in my soul.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had matched with the titleholder from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an air-off. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt comforted because it was a tune I recognized, and primarily I was so excited to have another go. When they announced I’d emerged victorious, the venue erupted.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from shock. Then everyone started chanting the classic tune that well-known track and lifted me on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – alias his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my dear companions, was embracing me. I wept. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar world champion in two and a half decades. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was also present. He bestowed upon me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a family. The phrase we live by is “Create music, not conflict”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a true way of life. People come from all over the world, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, all participants offers an embrace. Then for 60 seconds you’re free to be uninhibited, humorous, the biggest rock star in the world.

Besides that, I'm a percussionist and guitarist in a group with my brother called the band name, referencing the football manager, as we’re influenced by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been working in bars for a short time, and I produce mini movies and music videos. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life significantly but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it brings more artistic projects. My hometown will be a cultural hub soon, so there are promising opportunities.

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