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Back when I was 10, I discovered a article in my community gazette about the Air Guitar World Championships, held annually every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the very first contest starting from 1996 – mom handed out flyers, dad organized the music. Ever since, domestic competitions have been organized globally, with the champions assembling in Oulu annually.

At the time, I requested permission if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the competition was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They believed it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was determined.

During childhood, I was always performing air guitar, pretending to play to the iconic rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. Mom and Dad were enthusiasts – my father loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the original act I discovered on my own. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my idol.

When I stepped on stage, I played my set to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started chanting “Angus”, reminiscent of the concert version, and it struck me: this must be to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, competing to crowds in the town square, and I was captivated. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show once more, but I stayed out of the contest. I went back 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 qualified for the last round each competition since then, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was resolved to take the title this year.

The worldwide group is like a family. The saying we live by is ‘Create music, not conflict’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a true ethos.

The contest is competitive but uplifting. Competitors have one minute to give everything – dynamic presence, perfect mime, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. The panel score you on a scale from four to six. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a song plays and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I chose an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I listened to it on a loop for multiple weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs flexible enough to leap, my hands quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my back set for those bends and jumps. By the time the big day came, I could feel the song in my soul.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was time for an final showdown. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and primarily I was so eager to perform one more time. As they declared I’d won, the venue went wild.

The moment is hazy. I think I lost consciousness from shock. Then the crowd started chanting the classic tune that well-known track and hoisted me on to their backs. Justin Howard – also known as his performer title – a past winner and one of my closest friends, was holding me. I shed tears. I was the first Finnish air guitar global winner in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the former champion, was also present. He gave me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “long overdue”.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. The phrase we live by is “Create music, not conflict”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a genuine belief. Competitors come from all over the world, and all involved is positive and uplifting. As you prepare to compete, each contestant offers an embrace. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be uninhibited, humorous, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and guitarist in a band with my family member called the band name, inspired by the sports figure, as we’re fans of British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a couple of years, and I produce independent videos and performance clips. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it results in more artistic projects. My hometown will be a cultural hub next year, so there are exciting things ahead.

For now, I’m just appreciative: for the community, for the chance to perform, and for that young child who found a story and thought, “That's for me.”