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When I was just 10, I discovered a story in my community gazette about the Global Air Guitar Contest, that happens every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – my mother distributed flyers, dad sorted the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been organized all across the world, with the champions gathering in Oulu annually.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could participate. At first they were hesitant; the competition was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always performing air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My parents were music fans – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. AC/DC was the original act I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my idol.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started chanting “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it struck me: this must be to be a guitar hero. I made it to the finals, competing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was captivated. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show once more, 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 decided to own it and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve reached the finals annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a family. Our motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy.

The competition itself is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have 60 seconds to give everything – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. The panel rate you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a song plays and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I selected an a metal group 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 jump, my fingers fast enough to copy riffs and my spine prepared for those bends and jumps. By the time the big day dawned, I could internalize the track in my being.

When the show concluded, the scores came in, and I had drawn with the titleholder from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was time for an air-off. We went head-to-head to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. When I heard the song, I felt comforted because it was familiar to me, and more than anything I was so thrilled to play again. As they declared I’d emerged victorious, the square erupted.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I lost consciousness from shock. Then everyone started singing Neil Young’s that well-known track and lifted me on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – alias Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my best pals, was holding me. I cried. I was the first Finnish air guitar international titleholder in a quarter-century. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was also present. He gave me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

The air guitar community is like a family. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief. People come from all over the world, and all involved is positive and uplifting. Prior to performing, all participants offers an embrace. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be yourself, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Besides that, I'm a beat keeper and musician in a band with my brother called the band name, referencing the sports figure, as we’re influenced by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been serving drinks for a couple of years, and I direct independent videos and song visuals. The victory hasn’t altered my routine significantly but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it brings more creative work. The city will be a cultural hub next year, so there are exciting things ahead.

At present, I’m just grateful: for the community, for the ability to compete, and for that budding enthusiast who picked up a newspaper and thought, “I'd love to try that.”