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At the age of 10, I discovered a story in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My parents had participated at the pioneering contest starting from 1996 – mom handed out flyers, my father sorted the music. Since then, country-level contests have been held globally, with the titleholders assembling in Oulu each August.

Back then, I requested permission if I could compete. They weren't sure at first; the event was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They thought it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was determined.

In my youth, I was always performing air guitar, acting out to the iconic rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. Mom and Dad were enthusiasts – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the Australian rockers was the first band I discovered on my own. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my hero.

As I took the stage, I played my set to the band's that classic track. The audience started yelling “Angus”, just like the live recording, and it hit me: so this is to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, performing to a large audience in the town square, and I was addicted. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a adjudicator one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I didn't participate. I went back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I embraced it and make “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve reached the finals every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was set to take the title this year.

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

The contest is intense but joyful. Contestants have 60 seconds to deliver maximum effort – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. Judges evaluate you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. In the case of a tie, there’s an “air-off” between the remaining participants: a tune begins and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I picked an a metal group song for my act. I had it on repeat for multiple weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my limbs prepared enough to leap, my hands nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine ready for those bends and jumps. By the time the event arrived, I could feel the song in my being.

When the show concluded, the results were tallied, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an final showdown. We competed directly to that classic rock anthem by the rock group. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was a tune I recognized, and above all I was so eager to have another go. When they announced I’d triumphed, the area went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I lost consciousness from shock. Then all present started singing the song Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – AKA his performer title – a past winner and one of my dear companions, was hugging me. I cried. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar world champion in a quarter-century. The previous Finnish champion, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was in attendance as well. He offered me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. The phrase we live by is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy. Participants come from many countries, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. Before you go on stage, all participants shows support. Then for a brief period you’re free to be free, humorous, the top performer in the world.

Besides that, I'm a drummer and musician in a band with my brother called the band name, inspired by Gareth Southgate, as we’re fans of Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I create short films and music videos. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I wish it brings more creative work. The city will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just appreciative: for the group, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who read an article and thought, “I'd love to try that.”