So, I for one always listen to some Coltrane when I play chess. But I've been wondering; Does listening to music actually make you better or worse at chess? I mean, I know I play differently when I'm listening to a particular kind of music. Although I'm not sure if it makes me better or worse, or just a different sort of player. (i.e. Tactical vs. Agressive.) Does anyone else listen to music when they play?

Recent neurological studies have indicated that listening to music and playing music involve many parts of the brain, not just the right hemisphere.  The patterns in music appear to create more neural pathways and, thus, more connections.  This in turn provides a seemingly better understanding of patterns in general, concepts and relationships, which have direct implications for playing chess and games of all sorts. It is interesting that many people in math, computer science and the science fields are often involved in music.

Music psychology (the study how the brain works in relation to music) is a relatively new field of study; you may wish to do further research online.  Best wishes!

It makes me better at chess because with head phones in and Beethoven playing, I don't get distracted by my opponents sniffling, farting, nose whistle breathing, coughing, and soda slurping.

Does the type of music matter? I mean, like, mozart vs. Party Rock. I feel like music containing words is rather distracting over stimulating.

when I listen to metallica i tend to be more attacking and when i listen to Blue Oyster Cult (more cowbell) I tend to play more solidly

I would think music would lessen your concentraion and make it harder to think, but apparently not.  I could see some light music helping especially if it is pleasant.

Kenny G plays the best music for chess players, Qwertykeyboard.  His saxophone skills are so amazing and his music is so relaxing, it's perfect for chess.