A Canadian competitor successfully captured the title of the 2024 Air Guitar World Champion by delivering a flawless performance.
They are the most passionate musicians that remain unknown
to the world.
Competitors at this year's Air Guitar World Championships in
Finland gathered on Friday for the 27th edition of this unique event, often
referred to as the Olympics of air guitar, showcasing committed participants
such as “Shred Lasso” and “Guitarantula.”
The competition commenced on Wednesday with Airientation in
Oulu, located nearly 540 kilometers (335 miles) north of Helsinki, featuring a
category open to both seasoned veterans and newcomers. The Dark Horses
Qualifications took place on Thursday, leading up to the World Championships
Final on Friday night, where Canada’s Zachary “Ichabod Fame” Knowles was
crowned the 2024 Air Guitar World Champion.
The contest proved to be challenging, with former 2023 World
Champion Nanami “Seven Seas” Nagura from Japan and 2022 winner Kirill
“Guitarantula” Blumenkrants from France finishing in second and third place,
respectively. Participants are evaluated based on their performances of two
songs across two rounds, each lasting 60 seconds. While enthusiasm is
essential, the use of a real pick or finger-picking technique is optional.
Contestants are permitted to use props and costumes, but real instruments and backup
bands are not allowed.
This year's audience favorite was Mathilde “Clitoriff”
Dollat from France, who delivered a captivating performance that was further
intensified by the heavy rain soaking both the performer and the audience.
Last year, Nanami “Seven Seas” Nagura claimed her third
title, making her the most successful air guitarist in a competition that began
in 1996. She is now aiming for a fourth consecutive win against nine dark
horses and national champions from the United States, Belgium, Canada, Germany,
Ireland, Finland, and France.
The judging panel evaluated contestants based on criteria
such as originality, musical immersion, stage presence, technical skill,
artistic impression, and overall airness, awarding points on a scale from 4.0
to 6.0, as outlined in the competition's online rulebook. The contestant with
the highest cumulative score emerged victorious.
The tournament not only fosters international friendship but
also champions inclusivity. The championships’ website states, “Air guitar
playing is neither a traditional sport nor an art form, and it does not
necessitate specific venues or skills, making it accessible to everyone.” It
emphasizes that air guitar can be enjoyed by individuals of any gender, age,
ethnic background, sexual orientation, or social status, promoting equality
among participants.
Rest assured, regardless of who takes home the title, there
will be no sorrowful air guitar performances here. The organizers are dedicated
to advocating for global harmony with their motto, “MAKE AIR, NOT WAR.”
The competition's philosophy suggests that if everyone in
the world engaged in air guitar, conflicts would cease, climate issues would be
resolved, and negativity would vanish. Their website invites everyone to join
in playing air guitar for world peace at the conclusion of the event.
So grab your air guitar and join in the fun.