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When I was just 10, I read about a story in my local paper about the Air Guitar World Championships, which take place every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had helped out at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – my mum gave out flyers, my father organized the music. Since then, domestic competitions have been organized in many nations, with the titleholders converging in Oulu every summer.

Initially, I inquired with my family if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the competition was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They thought it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was resolved.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, pretending to play to the biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My parents were enthusiasts – my dad loved Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the guitar hero, was my idol.

When I stepped on stage, I did my routine to the band's that classic track. The audience started chanting “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it hit me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, playing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was addicted. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a adjudicator one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I didn't participate. I returned at 18, experimented with various stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and make “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve made it to the final every year since 2022, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was determined to take the title this year.

Our global network is like a support system. The saying we live by is ‘Make air, not war’. It may seem funny, but it’s a genuine belief.

The contest is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have one minute to give everything – dynamic presence, precise mimicry, stage magnetism – on an imaginary instrument. The panel rate you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. In the case of a tie, there’s an “air-off” between the last two competitors: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Preparation is everything. I selected an a metal group song for my routine. I listened to it on a loop for a long time. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my limbs loose enough to jump, my hands nimble enough to mimic solos and my upper body prepared for those bends and jumps. Once competition day dawned, I could feel the song in my being.

Once all acts were done, the results were tallied, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an tiebreaker. We faced off to that classic rock anthem by the rock group. When I heard the song, I felt relieved because it was one that I knew, and above all I was so eager to have another go. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the square went wild.

The moment is hazy. I think I blacked out from surprise. Then the crowd started chanting the song the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and lifted me on to their backs. Justin Howard – AKA his stage name – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I shed tears. I was Finland’s first air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The prior titleholder, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was there, too. He gave me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a genuine belief. Participants come from many countries, and all involved is helpful and motivating. Before you go on stage, all participants shows support. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be yourself, humorous, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and musician in a musical act with my sibling called the band name, referencing the football manager, as we’re influenced by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I produce independent videos and music videos. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it brings more artistic projects. My hometown will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are great prospects.

Currently, I’m just appreciative: for the community, for the ability to compete, and for that little kid who picked up a newspaper and thought, “I'd love to try that.”