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When I was just 10, I came across a feature in my hometown newspaper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My parents had helped out at the inaugural contest starting from 1996 – my mother gave out flyers, my dad organized the music. Since then, country-level contests have been organized globally, with the winners converging in Oulu each August.

At the time, I requested permission if I could compete. They weren't sure at first; the event was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They thought it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was determined.

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

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started chanting “Angus”, just like the concert version, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, performing to a large audience in Oulu’s market square, and I was hooked. I was dubbed “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, tried a few different stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve made it to the final annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to claim victory this year.

The worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a true ethos.

The contest is intense but joyful. Contestants have 60 seconds to give everything – explosive energy, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. The panel rate you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the remaining participants: a song plays and you create on the spot.

Getting ready is key. I picked an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I listened to it on a loop for weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my lower body flexible enough to bound, my fingers nimble enough to copy riffs and my upper body prepared for those moves and leaps. Once competition day arrived, I could sense the music in my being.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was time for an air-off. We went head-to-head to that classic rock anthem by the iconic band. As the music started, I felt comforted because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so eager to have another go. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the venue went wild.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then the crowd started singing Neil Young’s the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and hoisted me on to their shoulders. A former champion – AKA his performer title – a past winner and one of my best pals, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar global winner in two and a half decades. The prior titleholder, the earlier victor, was also present. He gave me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy. People come from globally, and each person is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, all participants comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re free to be yourself, silly, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Besides that, I'm a beat keeper and string player in a musical act with my brother called the group title, inspired by Gareth Southgate, as we’re fans of British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I create independent videos and music videos. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I hope it brings more innovative opportunities. Oulu will be a cultural hub the coming year, so there are great prospects.

At present, I’m just appreciative: for the network, for the opportunity to play, and for that little kid who picked up a newspaper and thought, “I'd love to try that.”