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Back when I was 10, I discovered a article in my local paper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, which take place every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the very first contest since 1996 – mom distributed flyers, my dad organized the music. From that point, national championships have been held all across the world, with the winners assembling in Oulu each August.

Initially, I asked my parents if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the show was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They felt it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was resolved.

In my youth, I was always performing air guitar, miming along to the biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were lovers of music – my dad loved Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the original act I stumbled upon myself. the lead guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to the band's that classic track. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, just like the concert version, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, competing to crowds in the town square, and I was hooked. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a judge one year, and started the show on another occasion, but I stayed out of the contest. I went back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve made it to the final every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was set to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a family. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The competition itself is high-energy yet fun. Contestants have one minute to put their all – high-powered performance, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. The panel rate you on a point range from a specific numeric range. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a tune begins and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I picked an a metal group song for my routine. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I stretched constantly, trying to get my lower body flexible enough to leap, my fingers quick enough to copy riffs and my upper body set for those bends and jumps. By the time competition day arrived, I could feel the song in my bones.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had tied with the titleholder from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was moment for an final showdown. We faced off to the Guns N’ Roses hit by Guns N’ Roses. Once the track began, I felt at ease because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so eager to play again. Once the results were read I’d triumphed, the venue exploded.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then the crowd started singing the song the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and lifted me on to their arms. Justin Howard – AKA his stage name – a past winner and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I wept. I was the first Finnish air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was also present. He offered me the warmest embrace and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. The phrase we live by is “Make air, not war”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a true way of life. People come from many countries, and all involved is positive and uplifting. Before you go on stage, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be uninhibited, humorous, the top performer in the world.

I’m also a beat keeper and guitarist in a band with my sibling called the group title, referencing the football manager, as we’re fans of UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I produce short films and performance clips. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I aspire it results in more creative work. The city will be a designated cultural center the coming year, so there are great prospects.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the community, for the opportunity to play, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “I want to do that.”