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At the age of 10, I discovered a story in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had participated at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, dad organized the music. From that point, national championships have been organized all across the world, with the winners converging in Oulu each August.

At the time, I inquired with my family if I could participate. Initially they had doubts; the competition was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was resolved.

In my youth, I was always “playing” air guitar, acting out to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My parents were music fans – my father loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the initial group I found independently. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my idol.

Upon entering the spotlight, I did my routine to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, reminiscent of the live recording, and it dawned on me: so this is to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, performing to hundreds of people in the town square, and I was hooked. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a judge one year, and started the show once more, but I didn’t compete. I returned at 18, experimented with various stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and choose “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve qualified for the last round each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was resolved to win this year.

Our global network is like a support system. Our guiding principle is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Participants have one minute to deliver maximum effort – high-powered performance, precise mimicry, rock star charisma – on an nonexistent axe. Adjudicators score you on a scale from a specific numeric range. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you improvise.

Training is crucial. I selected an Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I played it repeatedly for multiple weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs flexible enough to jump, my digits quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my back prepared for those bends and jumps. Once the big day dawned, I could sense the music in my being.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had drawn with the winner from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was time for an air-off. We competed directly to Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses. As the music started, I felt relieved because it was one that I knew, and above all I was so eager to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d triumphed, the area went wild.

The moment is hazy. I think I lost consciousness from surprise. Then all present started performing Neil Young’s Rockin’ in the Free World and lifted me on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – alias his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my best pals, was hugging me. I wept. I was the first Finnish air guitar world champion in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was also present. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our guiding saying is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a true way of life. People come from many countries, and each person is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, all participants shows support. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be uninhibited, playful, the top performer in the world.

I’m also a beat keeper and guitarist in a band with my brother called the Southgates, inspired by Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been serving drinks for a few years now, and I produce mini movies and music videos. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I aspire it brings more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a European capital of culture soon, so there are exciting things ahead.

Currently, I’m just appreciative: for the community, for the opportunity to play, and for that young child who picked up a newspaper and thought, “That's for me.”