I play with really loud and angry music at full volume, but multiple studies have shown that listening to music decreases performance, as the brain struggles to focus on multiple tasks at the same time.
Do you prefer to play chess with or without music?
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its chaotic with music, also cant risk my headphones if I rage after losing a game...
it's good 
if the other player takes too long
I like Ballroom Dancing music while playing chess.
Ray Duque III, GMBD
It depends on what type. Bach's harpsichord pieces are best for me. Baroque rules! However, without music is fine as well, as it helps me think as well.
i prefer with music
i prefer with music
Without cause it helps me focus
With, come to think of it. I'll have to try that. Hadn't really thought of it before. But classical, or instrumental music in general might be the only way to go, else end up getting distracted
Timotheus_Kim wrote:
It depends on what type. Bach's harpsichord pieces are best for me. Baroque rules! However, without music is fine as well, as it helps me think as well.
Bach for harpsichord good, also what he wrote for pipe organ. Baroque guitar or lute f.t.w. (You might be aware Bach did some composing for lute : check out "Bouree" (in E minor? I forget) ).
Spanish guitar my favorite subset of baroque. I'd recommend "Canarios" by Gaspar Sanz as well worth your attention . You can find several fine versions of it on YouTube
If it's an important game and I really want to focus, then I prefer to not use music, but I do for more casual games or just games with friends. I think it's important to not use too much music for chess, especially for competitive players because you have to get used to not playing the game with music for events such as in person tournaments or competitions.