Classes & Lectures

The Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis offers a great environment for beginning chess players to learn the basics of one of the oldest games in the world. We offer beginning classes for both children and adults, free to members, that will help you learn everything you need to know to get you ready to play chess against live opponents. Want to learn chess, but don't even know how the pieces move? This class is for you!

Once you're done with the basics, our intermediate class, also free to members, will help further sharpen your game.

You don't have to be an expert to play at the CCSCSL. In fact, one of our main goals is to share the game of chess with as many people as possible in our community. Chess not only helps young and old alike stay mentally sharp, it also teaches valuable life lessons. Patience, planning, goal setting and strategic thinking are just a few of the great things chess can help you develop, and you'll learn a pastime that will provide you enjoyment for the rest of your life. 

So what are you waiting for?

KIDS SUNDAYS: 1 PM		Grandmaster Ben Finegold teaches the basics in a fun and funny style. Appropriate for kids aged 5+.
ADULT BEGINNER TUESDAYS: 6 PM		An introduction to the rules of the game and basic tactical thinking, aimed at adults. Come to learn, and stay to play other people who are just starting out. Chess is easier than you think!
INTERMEDIATE TUESDAYS: 7:30 PM		Once you know the rules and have a few games under your belt, you’ll start to appreciate the strategic aspects of the game. This class will help you get your game to the next level. Chess is harder than you think!
MONTHLY GRANDMASTER LECTURE THURSDAY: 6 PM		Once a month, GM Ben Finegold reviews his own games and other recent games of note, guiding you through the thought processes of highly rated players in his inimitable style. This class is for experienced club players with a firm grasp on the game. Check the Events section of the website for the date and topic of the upcoming GM lecture.