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When I was just 10, I came across a feature in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, held annually every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had participated at the inaugural contest since 1996 – mom gave out flyers, my father sorted the music. From that point, national championships have been organized in many nations, with the champions converging in Oulu annually.

Back then, I requested permission if I could participate. Initially they had doubts; the event was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They believed 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 invisible instrument. My family were lovers of music – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the initial group I found independently. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my inspiration.

When I stepped on stage, I did my routine to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a rock star. I reached the championship, performing to crowds in the town square, and I was captivated. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I didn’t compete. I came back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve reached the finals each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was resolved to win this year.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. The saying we live by is ‘Make air, not war’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The event is intense but joyful. Contestants have one minute to deliver maximum effort – explosive energy, precise mimicry, rock star charisma – on an imaginary instrument. The panel score you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “air-off” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I chose an a metal group song for my routine. I had it on repeat for weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my legs flexible enough to bound, my fingers nimble enough to mimic solos and my upper body prepared for those bends and jumps. By the time the big day dawned, I could feel the song in my being.

When the show concluded, the results were tallied, and I had matched with the winner from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was moment for an air-off. We competed directly to that classic rock anthem by the rock group. As the music started, I felt comforted because it was familiar to me, and more than anything I was so thrilled to have another go. As they declared I’d emerged victorious, the square exploded.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then everyone started singing Neil Young’s that well-known track and lifted me on to their shoulders. A former champion – also known as Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I shed tears. I was the first Finnish air guitar world champion in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the biggest hug and said it was “about damn time”.

The air guitar community is like a support system. The phrase we live by is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a genuine belief. Participants come from globally, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, each contestant offers an embrace. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be yourself, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and string player in a group with my brother called the Southgates, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a couple of years, and I create mini movies and song visuals. Winning hasn’t changed my day-to-day life too much but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it brings more creative work. My hometown will be a European capital of culture the coming year, so there are exciting things ahead.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the group, for the ability to compete, and for that little kid who picked up a newspaper and thought, “That's for me.”