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When I was just 10, I came across a story in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My parents had volunteered at the inaugural contest since 1996 – my mother distributed flyers, my dad managed the music. From that point, country-level contests have been organized globally, with the titleholders assembling in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I requested permission if I could compete. Initially they had doubts; the show was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They thought it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, acting out to the iconic rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. Mom and Dad were enthusiasts – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the initial group I found independently. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my hero.

When I stepped on stage, I did my routine to the band's that classic track. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it hit me: so this is to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, playing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was hooked. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a adjudicator one year, and opened for the show another time, but I stayed out of the contest. I came back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, 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 competition itself is intense but joyful. Competitors have one minute to give everything – explosive energy, perfect mime, stage magnetism – on an nonexistent axe. Judges rate you on a scale from four to six. If scores are equal, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the remaining participants: a song plays and you create on the spot.

Getting ready is key. I picked an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I stretched constantly, trying to get my lower body loose enough to leap, my fingers quick enough to mimic solos and my back set for those gestures and hops. By the time the event dawned, I could sense the music in my bones.

Once all acts were done, the points were announced, and I had tied with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an tiebreaker. We competed directly to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt relieved because it was a tune I recognized, and primarily I was so thrilled to have another go. As they declared I’d emerged victorious, the square exploded.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from shock. Then everyone started performing the song that well-known track and raised me up on to their backs. One of the greats – also known as Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my dear companions, was hugging me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in a quarter-century. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was also present. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief. People come from all over the world, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, all participants comes and hugs you. Then for one minute you’re able to be free, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a drummer and guitarist in a group with my family member called the band name, named after Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been bartending for a couple of years, and I produce short films and performance clips. The title hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it results in more creative work. My hometown will be a designated cultural center next year, so there are great prospects.

For now, I’m just thankful: for the community, for the chance to perform, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “I'd love to try that.”