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Back when I was 10, I discovered a feature in my hometown newspaper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, held annually every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the inaugural contest starting from 1996 – my mum gave out flyers, my father managed the music. Since then, country-level contests have been staged all across the world, with the champions gathering in Oulu each August.

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

In my youth, I was always performing air guitar, acting out to the most popular rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My parents were lovers of music – my dad loved Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the original act I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my inspiration.

As I took the stage, I performed my act to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started shouting “Angus”, reminiscent of the album track, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a guitar hero. I reached the championship, performing to a large audience 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 kicked off 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 embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve qualified for the last round each competition since then, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was set to take the title this year.

Our global network is like a support system. Our guiding principle is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It may seem funny, but it’s a true ethos.

The event is intense but joyful. Participants have 60 seconds to put their all – high-powered performance, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. The panel rate you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the last two competitors: a tune begins and you create on the spot.

Getting ready is key. I selected an a metal group song for my routine. I had it on repeat for multiple weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my lower body prepared enough to leap, my fingers fast enough to mimic solos and my spine set for those bends and jumps. By the time the big day arrived, I could feel the song in my bones.

After everyone had performed, the results were tallied, and I had matched with the titleholder from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was moment for an air-off. We faced off to that classic rock anthem by the rock group. When I heard the song, I felt comforted because it was one that I knew, and primarily I was so eager to play again. As they declared I’d triumphed, the area went wild.

The moment is hazy. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then the crowd started performing the classic tune that well-known track and hoisted me on to their shoulders. A former champion – AKA his stage name – a former champion and one of my best pals, was holding me. I cried. I was the first Finnish air guitar global winner in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the biggest hug and said it was “finally happening”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from all over the world, and everyone is supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, all participants offers an embrace. Then for a brief period you’re able to be yourself, playful, the biggest rock star in the world.

Besides that, I'm a percussionist and string player in a group with my family member called the Southgates, named after Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by British music genres. I’ve been working in bars for a short time, and I direct short films and music videos. Winning hasn’t changed my day-to-day life significantly but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it leads to more creative work. My hometown will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are promising opportunities.

Currently, I’m just appreciative: for the group, for the opportunity to play, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”