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Back when I was 10, I came across a feature in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had helped out at the inaugural contest since 1996 – my mum distributed flyers, my dad organized the music. Ever since, country-level contests have been held in many nations, with the winners converging in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could compete. Initially they had doubts; the show was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They thought it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was set on it.

In my youth, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were music fans – my dad loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the first band I found independently. the lead guitarist, the frontman guitarist, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I did my routine to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started shouting “Angus”, just like the album track, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I reached the championship, competing to a large audience in Oulu’s market 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 on another occasion, but I didn’t compete. I came back 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 artist name. I’ve qualified for the last round annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was set to win this year.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our guiding principle is ‘Make air, not war’. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy.

The event is intense but joyful. Participants have one minute to give everything – explosive energy, precise mimicry, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. The panel rate you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the last two competitors: a track is selected and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I chose an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I played it repeatedly for weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my lower body loose enough to leap, my hands quick enough to copy riffs and my spine prepared for those moves and leaps. When the event came, I could internalize the track in my bones.

Once all acts were done, the scores came in, and I had matched with the titleholder from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an tiebreaker. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses. As the music started, I felt comforted because it was a tune I recognized, and primarily I was so thrilled to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d won, the venue erupted.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I blacked out from shock. Then everyone started performing the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and lifted me on to their shoulders. One of the greats – alias his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I cried. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in a quarter-century. The prior titleholder, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was there, too. He gave me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

This worldwide group is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a true way of life. Competitors come from many countries, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, each contestant shows support. Then for one minute you’re able to be uninhibited, humorous, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and musician in a group with my family member called the Southgates, named after the sports figure, as we’re influenced by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I produce short films and music videos. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it brings more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a cultural hub soon, so there are great prospects.

For now, I’m just appreciative: for the community, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “I want to do that.”