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Back when I was 10, I read about a article in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the pioneering contest back in 1996 – my mother handed out flyers, my dad organized the music. Ever since, domestic competitions have been held globally, with the titleholders converging in Oulu each August.

Back then, I inquired with my family if I could enter. At first they were hesitant; the show was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was determined.

In my youth, I was always “playing” air guitar, acting out to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My parents were enthusiasts – my father loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. the lead guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

As I took the stage, I performed my act to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, competing to hundreds of people in the town square, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a adjudicator one year, and started 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 make “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve qualified for the last round every year since 2022, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was set to take the title this year.

The worldwide group is like a support system. The saying we live by is ‘Make air, not war’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a real philosophy.

The competition itself is high-energy yet fun. Contestants have one minute to give everything – high-powered performance, perfect mime, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. The panel rate you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “air-off” between the last two competitors: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Preparation is everything. I selected an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I listened to it on a loop for weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my limbs loose enough to jump, my hands nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine ready for those bends and jumps. Once the event came, I could sense the music in my being.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an tiebreaker. We went head-to-head to that classic rock anthem by the rock group. Once the track began, I felt comforted because it was a tune I recognized, and more than anything I was so excited to play again. Once the results were read I’d won, the venue exploded.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then the crowd started chanting the song the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and raised me up on to their shoulders. One of the greats – AKA his performer title – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I cried. I was Finland’s first air guitar world champion in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a family. The phrase we live by is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a real philosophy. Competitors come from all over the world, and each person is supportive and encouraging. Before you go on stage, every competitor comes and hugs you. Then for one minute you’re free to be yourself, silly, the top performer in the world.

Besides that, I'm a percussionist and guitarist in a musical act with my family member called the Southgates, referencing the football manager, as we’re inspired by British music genres. I’ve been working in bars for a couple of years, and I create mini movies and music videos. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life too much but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it brings more innovative opportunities. The city will be a cultural hub the coming year, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just grateful: for the network, for the chance to perform, and for that budding enthusiast who found a story and thought, “That's for me.”