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Back when I was 10, I discovered a article in my community gazette about the Air Guitar World Championships, which take place every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My family had helped out at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – mom gave out flyers, my dad managed the music. From that point, country-level contests have been staged all across the world, with the champions gathering in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I inquired with my family if I could participate. At first they were hesitant; the competition was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They felt it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was set on it.

As a kid, I was always performing air guitar, pretending to play to the iconic rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My family were enthusiasts – my father loved Springsteen and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the original act I discovered on my own. the lead guitarist, 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 shouting “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it hit me: this must be to be a guitar hero. I reached the championship, performing to crowds in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show on another occasion, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, tested out several stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and adopt “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve reached the finals annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to take the title this year.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our guiding principle is ‘Make air, not war’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a true ethos.

The event is high-energy yet fun. Participants have one minute to put their all – explosive energy, perfect mime, rock star charisma – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators rate you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the last two competitors: a tune begins and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I selected an Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I listened to it on a loop for multiple weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my limbs flexible enough to leap, my digits quick enough to copy riffs and my upper body set for those gestures and hops. By the time the event dawned, I could feel the song in my soul.

After everyone had performed, the results were tallied, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an tiebreaker. We faced off to that classic rock anthem by the rock group. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and primarily I was so excited to play again. As they declared I’d triumphed, the square erupted.

My memory is blurry. I think I lost consciousness from surprise. Then the crowd started performing the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and raised me up on to their backs. One of the greats – also known as his stage name – a past winner and one of my best pals, was holding me. I cried. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was there, too. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “about damn time”.

The air guitar community is like a support system. Our guiding saying is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from many countries, and everyone is helpful and motivating. Before you go on stage, all participants shows support. Then for one minute you’re allowed to be free, playful, the biggest rock star in the world.

Besides that, I'm a drummer and guitarist in a band with my brother called the group title, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I create mini movies and performance clips. The victory hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it leads to more innovative opportunities. The city will be a European capital of culture the coming year, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just grateful: for the group, for the opportunity to play, and for that young child who found a story and thought, “I'd love to try that.”