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Back when I was 10, I read about a feature in my local paper about the Air Guitar World Championships, that happens every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the pioneering contest back in 1996 – my mother handed out flyers, dad organized the music. Ever since, domestic competitions have been organized all across the world, with the champions assembling in Oulu annually.

At the time, I requested permission if I could enter. At first they were hesitant; the competition was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They thought it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.

As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, pretending to play to the biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were music fans – my dad loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the original act I found independently. the lead guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to the band's that classic track. The crowd started shouting “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it struck me: this must be to be a guitar hero. I advanced to the last round, playing to hundreds of people in the town square, and I was captivated. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show once more, but I didn't participate. I returned at 18, tried a few different stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I embraced it and make “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve qualified for the last round every year since 2022, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was set to claim victory this year.

Our global network is like a support system. Our guiding principle is ‘Make air, not war’. It may seem funny, but it’s a real philosophy.

The competition itself is high-energy yet fun. Contestants have one minute to deliver maximum effort – high-powered performance, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators evaluate you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. In the case of a tie, there’s an “air-off” between the last two competitors: a tune begins and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I chose an a metal group song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs flexible enough to bound, my hands quick enough to mimic solos and my spine prepared for those gestures and hops. When the event came, I could internalize the track in my soul.

Once all acts were done, the scores came in, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was time for an final showdown. We went head-to-head to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. As the music started, I felt relieved because it was a tune I recognized, and more than anything I was so eager to perform one more time. As they declared I’d emerged victorious, the square went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I lost consciousness from surprise. Then all present started performing Neil Young’s that well-known track and raised me up on to their shoulders. One of the greats – AKA Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was embracing me. I wept. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar world champion in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He gave me the warmest embrace and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief. Competitors come from all over the world, and each person is supportive and encouraging. Before you go on stage, every competitor comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be uninhibited, silly, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and guitarist in a group with my family member called the Southgates, inspired by Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I create mini movies and song visuals. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I hope it brings more innovative opportunities. Oulu will be a European capital of culture soon, so there are great prospects.

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