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Back when I was 10, I read about a article in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My parents had helped out at the very first contest starting from 1996 – my mum distributed flyers, my father managed the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been staged all across the world, with the champions assembling in Oulu every summer.

Initially, I requested permission if I could compete. Initially they had doubts; the show was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They felt it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was set on it.

In my youth, I was always “playing” air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. AC/DC was the original act I found independently. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my hero.

When I stepped on stage, I performed my act to the band's that classic track. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, similar to the album track, and it struck me: this must be to be a guitar hero. I reached the championship, performing to crowds in the public plaza, and I was hooked. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a judge one year, and started the show another time, but I didn’t compete. I went back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully 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 claim victory this year.

The worldwide group is like a support system. Our guiding principle is ‘Create music, not conflict’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a true ethos.

The competition itself is competitive but uplifting. Participants have one minute to deliver maximum effort – explosive energy, flawless imitation, stage magnetism – on an nonexistent axe. The panel rate you on a point range from four to six. In the case of a tie, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you create on the spot.

Training is crucial. I chose an a metal group song for my act. I had it on repeat for multiple weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my lower body flexible enough to bound, my fingers fast enough to imitate guitar parts and my back ready for those gestures and hops. By the time the event dawned, I could internalize the track in my being.

When the show concluded, the results were tallied, and I had tied with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an final showdown. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. When I heard the song, I felt comforted because it was one that I knew, and above all I was so eager to perform one more time. When they announced I’d triumphed, the area exploded.

The moment is hazy. I think I lost consciousness from the excitement. Then everyone started chanting the song that well-known track and hoisted me on to their arms. Justin Howard – also known as his stage name – a past winner and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I cried. I was Finland’s first air guitar world champion in two and a half decades. The prior titleholder, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was also present. He gave me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. The phrase we live by is “Create music, not conflict”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Competitors come from many countries, and each person is positive and uplifting. As you prepare to compete, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re free to be uninhibited, silly, the biggest rock star in the world.

Besides that, I'm a percussionist and musician in a musical act with my family member called the group title, referencing the sports figure, as we’re fans of Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a couple of years, and I create mini movies and music videos. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I hope it leads to more artistic projects. My hometown will be a cultural hub the coming year, so there are exciting things ahead.

For now, I’m just thankful: for the community, for the opportunity to play, and for that little kid who picked up a newspaper and thought, “That's for me.”