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Back when I was 10, I discovered a article in my community gazette about the Global Air Guitar Contest, held annually every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My parents had volunteered at the very first contest back in 1996 – my mother distributed flyers, my dad organized the music. Since then, national championships have been staged all across the world, with the titleholders gathering in Oulu annually.

At the time, I asked my parents if I could participate. Initially they had doubts; the event 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.

As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – my dad loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the first band I found independently. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I did my routine to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started shouting “Angus”, reminiscent of the live recording, and it hit me: so this is to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, playing to crowds in the town square, and I was captivated. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a adjudicator one year, and started the show once more, but I didn't participate. I went back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was resolved to claim victory this year.

Our global network is like a family. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The competition itself is competitive but uplifting. Competitors have one minute to give everything – explosive energy, precise mimicry, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. Judges evaluate you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the last two competitors: a tune begins and you create on the spot.

Getting ready is key. I selected an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I had it on repeat for multiple weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my lower body prepared enough to bound, my digits quick enough to copy riffs and my spine prepared for those moves and leaps. When the big day dawned, I could feel the song in my bones.

After everyone had performed, the scores came in, and I had tied with the titleholder from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an air-off. We competed directly to that classic rock anthem by the iconic band. As the music started, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so excited to perform one more time. When they announced I’d triumphed, the area erupted.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then everyone started chanting the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their shoulders. A former champion – alias his stage name – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was embracing me. I wept. I was the first Finnish air guitar international titleholder in a quarter-century. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He offered me the warmest embrace and said it was “long overdue”.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. The phrase we live by is “Create music, not conflict”. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief. Participants come from all over the world, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, every competitor shows support. Then for one minute you’re allowed to be free, playful, the top performer in the world.

I’m also a beat keeper and string player in a musical act with my family member called the band name, inspired by Gareth Southgate, as we’re influenced by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been working in bars for a short time, and I produce short films and song visuals. Winning hasn’t altered my routine significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I wish it leads to more artistic projects. My hometown will be a cultural hub next year, so there are promising opportunities.

For now, I’m just grateful: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “I want to do that.”