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When I was just 10, I read about a story in my hometown newspaper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had helped out at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – my mum distributed flyers, dad managed the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been staged all across the world, with the champions converging in Oulu each August.

Back then, I requested permission if I could compete. Initially they had doubts; the event was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was resolved.

As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My parents were enthusiasts – my father loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the original act I discovered on my own. the lead guitarist, the guitar hero, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to AC/DC’s that classic track. The audience started chanting “Angus”, reminiscent of the album track, and it hit me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I reached the championship, playing to hundreds of people in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a referee one year, and opened for the show on another occasion, but I stayed out of the contest. I came back at 18, tested out several stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and adopt “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve reached the finals every year since 2022, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was resolved to take the title this year.

The worldwide group is like a support system. Our motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The event is high-energy yet fun. Participants have one minute to deliver maximum effort – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, rock star charisma – on an imaginary instrument. Judges score you on a point range from a specific numeric range. If scores are equal, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the remaining participants: a tune begins and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I selected an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I had it on repeat for a long time. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my limbs loose enough to leap, my fingers quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine prepared for those bends and jumps. When the big day arrived, I could internalize the track in my being.

After everyone had performed, the scores came in, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was occasion for an final showdown. We competed directly to the Guns N’ Roses hit by Guns N’ Roses. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was a tune I recognized, and more than anything I was so thrilled to have another go. When they announced I’d triumphed, the venue erupted.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then everyone started chanting the song Rockin’ in the Free World and lifted me on to their shoulders. One of the greats – AKA his performer title – a former champion and one of my closest friends, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar global winner in two and a half decades. The previous Finnish champion, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a real philosophy. Competitors come from many countries, and everyone is positive and uplifting. Prior to performing, every competitor comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re able to be yourself, silly, the biggest rock star in the world.

I’m also a beat keeper and string player in a group with my sibling called the Southgates, referencing the sports figure, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been working in bars for a short time, and I produce short films and music videos. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life drastically but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it results in more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a European capital of culture soon, so there are great prospects.

For now, I’m just appreciative: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “I'd love to try that.”