Music and Chess

Music and chess may seem like completely unrelated activities, but there is actually a long-standing relationship between the two. Many chess players, both amateur and professional, enjoy listening to music while they play, and some even claim that it enhances their performance.

One possible explanation for this is that music can help players to focus and block out distractions. Chess requires intense concentration and mental effort, and the right music can help players to get into the right mindset. Some players prefer music with a steady beat, such as classical or jazz, while others find that more ambient or atmospheric music is better suited to their needs.

Interestingly, some famous chess players have also been accomplished musicians. For example, Grandmaster Sergey Karjakin is a talented pianist who has performed in public concerts, and Grandmaster Mark Taimanov was a professional concert pianist before he became a full-time chess player.

Russian grandmaster Sergey Karjakin

Grandmaster Mark Taimanov


Music is also sometimes incorporated into chess events and tournaments. For example, the annual Chess & Jazz Festival in Leiden, Netherlands features live jazz performances alongside chess tournaments and exhibitions. The Chess960 World Championship, a variant of chess where the starting position of the pieces is randomized, features a live classical music performance during the games.

In conclusion, while music and chess may not seem to have much in common at first glance, they are both activities that require skill, focus, and creativity. Whether you are a chess player who enjoys listening to music while you play or a musician who is curious about the game of chess, there is no denying that there is a unique and fascinating relationship between these two disciplines.