Unlock Your Potential,
One Move at a Time
Welcome to the Albany Chess Center, where we nurture strategic minds and build a community of passionate chess players of all ages and skill levels.
Why Chess Matters
Chess isn't just a game. It's a powerful tool for developing essential life skills and cognitive abilities.
Critical Thinking
Develops logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Patience & Focus
Builds concentration and careful planning skills.
Social Skills
Encourages sportsmanship and builds friendships.
Academic Success
Improves math, reading, and memory skills.
Our Core Programs
Comprehensive chess education for every setting, designed to develop strategic thinking and build confidence.
In-School & After-School
We partner with schools to bring the benefits of chess directly to students, enhancing critical thinking and focus during and after the school day.
Learn MoreOnline Chess Lessons
Flexible, one-on-one online coaching with our top instructors, available from the comfort of your home, anywhere in the world.
Learn MoreReady to Make Your First Move?
Our one-hour evaluation is the perfect way to get a baseline of your skills and see how our coaching can help you improve.
✓ No commitment required ✓ Instant booking ✓ Expert evaluation
About the Albany Chess Center
Building a community through the timeless game of chess.
Our Mission
To provide a welcoming and supportive environment for chess enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. We aim to foster intellectual growth, sportsmanship, and a lifelong love for the game through high-quality instruction and community engagement.
Our Story
Founded on the belief that chess is more than just a game, the Albany Chess Center was created to be a hub for learning and connection. We saw a need for a dedicated space where both children and adults could come together to learn, play, and grow. From after-school programs that build critical skills in kids to advanced coaching for aspiring masters, we are committed to enriching the lives of our community members through chess.
Our Instructors
Our instructors are a dedicated team of experienced and passionate chess players, including US Chess Federation certified coaches and National Masters. They are committed to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment, sharing their deep knowledge of the game and helping every student achieve their full potential.
Community Impact
We've helped hundreds of students develop critical thinking skills and build confidence through chess education.
Quality Standards
All our programs meet the highest educational standards and are designed to maximize learning outcomes.
Upcoming Classes
Join our chess community for tournaments, classes, and special events.
Upcoming Classes
Sunday
Sunday Quads
3 rounds, competitive sections
🕒 6:00 – 8:30 PM
Monday
Monday Youth – Beginner
Ages 5–11, 0–800 USCF
🕒 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Monday Youth – Intermediate
Ages 5–14, 800–1200 USCF
🕒 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Free Tournament — U1000
USCF-rated tournament for players under 1000
🕒 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday
Ladies' Night
Casual play, coaching support, welcoming atmosphere
🕒 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Wednesday
Adult Class — All Levels
Instruction + guided practice
🕒 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Free Play — Open Tables
Stick around after class for casual games
🕒 7:30 – 10:00 PM
Thursday
Thursday Youth – Advanced
Ages 5–17, 1200–1600 USCF
🕒 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Thursday Youth – Master
Ages 5–17, 1600+ USCF
🕒 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Free Chess Lecture — FM John Fawole
Open lecture; concepts, Q&A
🕒 7:00 – 8:00 PM
Register for Free Chess Lecture — FM John Fawole
Fill this quick form to reserve your seat. You'll receive a confirmation on this page after submitting.
Thursday Rapid Tournament
USCF-rated rapid (G/15; d5)
🕒 8:15 – 10:00 PM
Friday
Friday Blitz Tournament
Fast-paced, fun ladder
🕒 7:00 – 9:30 PM
Saturday
Saturday Beginner/Novice Class
Foundations, rules, basic tactics
🕒 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Saturday Intermediate Class
Tactics, strategy, and review
🕒 2:00 – 3:00 PM
Saturday Advanced Class
Advanced strategy and practical positions
🕒 3:00 – 4:00 PM
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In-School & After-School Programs
Bringing chess education directly to your school community.
Program Overview
We partner with local schools to integrate chess into the academic landscape. Our programs are designed to be fun, engaging, and profoundly educational, fitting seamlessly into the school day or as a structured after-school activity.
Benefits for Students
- Develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Improves concentration, memory, and patience
- Encourages creativity and foresight
- Teaches sportsmanship and resilience
How It Works
Our experienced instructors handle everything, from curriculum planning to providing all necessary equipment (boards, pieces, and demonstration tools). We work with school administrators to create a program that meets the specific needs and schedule of your students.
Bring Chess to Your School
For inquiries and to discuss setting up a program at your school, please contact us directly. We would be delighted to provide a detailed proposal.
Email: info@albanychesscenter.com
High-Quality Instruction, Anywhere
Learn from the best, no matter where you are. Our online lessons provide the same high-quality, personalized instruction as our in-person coaching, with the added convenience of learning from home.
Why Choose Online Lessons?
Online Lesson Pricing
All sessions are 60 minutes long.
Personalized & Home Lessons
We come to you for the ultimate convenience.
Home Lessons (We Come to You!)
For the ultimate convenience, our instructors can provide personalized lessons in the comfort of your own home. All sessions are 60 minutes long.
Why Choose Home Lessons?
Home Lesson Pricing
Group Chess Lessons
Learn and grow with peers in a fun, social environment.
Group Chess Lessons
Learn and grow with peers in our dynamic group lessons. These sessions provide a fun, social, and structured environment to learn chess fundamentals, practice new strategies, and play against a variety of opponents. It's a fantastic way to build skills and make new friends who share a passion for the game.
What to Expect
Schedule & Pricing
All sessions are 60 minutes long. Please contact us for the latest schedule and availability.
Join the Albany Chess Center
Become a member and join our chess community.
Note: Fields marked with * are required. Your registration information will be sent to us before you proceed to payment.
Membership Benefits
- Discounted entry to classes, tournaments and special events at the Albany Chess Center
- Access to Library
- Access to exclusive members-only workshops and events
- Monthly members-only newsletter with tips and puzzles
Order Summary
Book a Lesson or Evaluation
Choose your preferred lesson type and fill out the form below. We'll contact you within 24 hours to schedule your session.
Choose Your Lesson Type
Evaluation
$35
60-minute skill assessment
Online Lessons
$50
per lesson (60 min)
Home Lessons
$110
per lesson (60 min)
Group Lessons
$150
per lesson (60 min)
Saturday Drop-in Classes
Beginner Class
$20/$25
1:00-2:00 PM • Unrated to 800 USCF
Intermediate Class
$20/$25
2:00-3:00 PM • 800-1400 USCF
Advanced Class
$20/$25
3:00-4:00 PM • 1400+ USCF
What Happens After You Book?
Thank You!
Your request has been sent. We will contact you within 24 hours to schedule your session.
Submission Failed
Sorry, there was an error submitting your request. Please try again later or contact us directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly will you respond?
We typically respond within 24 hours to schedule your session and answer any questions.
What if I'm not sure about my skill level?
No problem! That's exactly what our evaluation session is for. We'll assess your skills and recommend the best path forward.
Can I change my lesson type later?
Absolutely! We're flexible and can adjust your lesson plan based on your progress and preferences.
What equipment do I need?
For online lessons, just a computer with internet. For home lessons, we bring everything. For evaluations, we provide all equipment.
Get In Touch
We'd love to hear from you! Whether you have a question about our programs or want to partner with us, we're ready to help.
Contact Information
The best ways to reach us.
Ready to Book?
Select a lesson or package and schedule your session on our booking page.
Go to Booking FormCareers at Albany Chess Center
Join our team and inspire the next generation of chess players.
JUNIOR CHESS INSTRUCTOR
Albany, NY • Part-time • Multiple Positions
SENIOR CHESS INSTRUCTOR
Albany, NY • Part-time • 2 Positions
PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Albany, NY • Full-time
MARKETING ASSISTANT
Albany, NY • Part-time
Why Join Albany Chess Center?
Our mission is to develop and deliver exceptional chess education programs that can positively transform the lives of students and community members through the game of chess.
We are driven by four core values: Excellence, Innovation, Community, and Growth. We foster a culture of determination, curiosity, and pushing boundaries to develop innovative educational solutions that make a real impact on our students.
We are driven to inspire and motivated for positive change in our community through chess education.
Job Summary
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send their resume and cover letter to our careers email address.
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