“Watching chess is not exactly like going to a football game,” Aaron Caveny of Nashville Chess Center tells the Scene. “It’s pretty quiet.” But don’t let the low volume fool you: The three-day Music City Open promises some high-caliber play. In past years, the tournament has lured grand masters and international masters to the Millennium Hotel Maxwell House, where spectators can watch the official competition for free or hang out in another room with chessboards available for casual play. (Note: Phones are not allowed inside the playing venue.) “Chess players aren’t exactly big advance planners, so you never know who you’re going to see,” Caveny says, adding that players can register at the door. Schedules are available at nashvillechess.org.
Feb. 20-22 at the Millennium Hotel Maxwell House
2025 Rosa L. Parks Blvd.
