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When I was just 10, I came across a story in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, held annually every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had helped out at the very first contest back in 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, dad organized the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been held in many nations, with the champions converging in Oulu annually.

At the time, I requested permission 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 intimidating atmosphere, but I was set on it.

As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were lovers of music – my father loved The Boss and U2. the band AC/DC was the first band I stumbled upon myself. the lead guitarist, the frontman guitarist, was my idol.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, reminiscent of the live recording, and it struck me: this must be to be a guitar hero. I advanced to the last round, competing to a large audience in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a referee one year, and opened for the show another time, but I didn't participate. I returned at 18, tried a few different stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I embraced it and adopt “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve qualified for the last round each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to win this year.

The worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a real philosophy.

The contest is competitive but uplifting. Competitors have a short window to give everything – explosive energy, perfect mime, rock star charisma – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators evaluate you on a scale from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a song plays and you create on the spot.

Training is crucial. I selected an a metal group song for my performance. I listened to it on a loop for a long time. I stretched constantly, trying to get my limbs loose enough to bound, my hands nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my back set for those gestures and hops. Once the big day arrived, I could sense the music in my being.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had tied with the titleholder from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was time for an final showdown. We faced off to that classic rock anthem by the iconic band. When I heard the song, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so excited to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the venue went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then the crowd started chanting the song that well-known track 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 closest friends, was hugging me. I wept. I was Finland’s first air guitar world champion in two and a half decades. The prior titleholder, the earlier victor, was also present. He gave me the biggest hug and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a family. The phrase we live by is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a true way of life. People come from globally, and everyone is helpful and motivating. As you prepare to compete, every competitor offers an embrace. Then for 60 seconds you’re free to be uninhibited, silly, the biggest rock star in the world.

Additionally, I am a drummer and musician in a group with my sibling called the group title, inspired by 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 significantly but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I aspire it results in more creative work. Oulu will be a cultural hub next year, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just grateful: for the community, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”