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At the age of 10, I read about a story in my hometown newspaper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, which take place every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had helped out at the very first contest back in 1996 – my mother gave out flyers, my dad organized the music. From that point, national championships have been staged globally, with the champions assembling in Oulu each August.

At the time, I requested permission if I could compete. They weren't sure at first; the show was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They believed it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always performing air guitar, acting out to the biggest rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My parents were music fans – my dad loved Springsteen and U2. the Australian rockers was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

When I stepped on stage, I did my routine to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a rock star. I reached the championship, performing to a large audience in the public plaza, and I was captivated. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a adjudicator 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 performance alias. 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 worldwide group is like a close-knit group. Our guiding principle is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It sounds silly, but it’s a true ethos.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have one minute to put their all – dynamic presence, perfect mime, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. The panel rate you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. In the case of a tie, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a tune begins and you freestyle.

Preparation is everything. I chose an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I had it on repeat for multiple weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my lower body prepared enough to leap, my hands fast enough to copy riffs and my spine ready for those moves and leaps. Once the big day arrived, I could internalize the track in my being.

When the show concluded, the scores came in, and I had drawn with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was time for an final showdown. We faced off to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt at ease because it was a tune I recognized, and primarily I was so thrilled to play again. As they declared I’d triumphed, the square went wild.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then all present started singing the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and raised me up on to their backs. A former champion – AKA his stage name – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a close-knit group. Our guiding saying is “Create music, not conflict”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a genuine belief. Participants come from all over the world, and each person is supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re able to be free, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Besides that, I'm a beat keeper and string player in a band with my sibling called the Southgates, named after the football manager, as we’re fans of Britpop and new wave. I’ve been working in bars for a short time, and I create independent videos and song visuals. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life significantly but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it leads to more creative work. The city will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are exciting things ahead.

Currently, I’m just appreciative: for the network, for the opportunity to play, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”