Conference

10:30–11:30

Welcome

Historical Approaches

Peter-Arnold Mumm: The Early History of Chess Pieces: How the Knight and Rook ruled the half of the world

The names of the pieces in the ancient Indian game of chess mostly originate in India itself. Two names, however, can be traced back to Proto-Indo-European times: aśva and ratha. What does the history of the Indo-European words for “horse” and “chariot” – which can be traced back to the 3rd millennium BCE – tell us about the Indo-European expansion through warfare? If we accept what the Vedic texts and archaeological finds tell us, there are quite a few surprises there.
Abstract to follow


Stefan Löffler: The 1936 Nazi Chess Olympiad

Following the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, an Olympic team tournament took place in Munich. After the Soviet Union, Nazi Germany was the second state to provide massive support for the sport of chess—and to exploit it ideologically—including for what would today be termed "soft power." Drawing on contemporary sources and photographs from the Munich City Archives, this presentation contextualizes this historical event.

11:30–11:45

Coffee Break

11:45–13:15

Philidor and His Era (in German)

Christian Benda (Video Presentation): Parallels between Chess and Music

Music and chess are both played and are deeply connected with mathematics. His double genius enabled Philidor to become one of the catalysts of the transition from Baroque to Classic and Romantic Music.


Volker Antusch: Compositions of a Chess Genius

Arranging a programme of Philidor´s music comes with challenges, as he composed mostly operas and only a few instrumental pieces, but also with insights.


Susanna Poldauf (Video Presentation): A Life Between Music and Chess

Philidor´s early contact with chess in the Royal Choir and the Café de la Régence made him the dominant player of his century, but his real ambition was opera, where he was innovative and successful. When his music income dwindled, he returned to chess and showmanship.


Frank Hoffmeister: Europe’s Mentor

Even though few of Philidor´s games have survived, his impact on chess was immense. “L´analyse du jeu des échecs” was translated many times and remained the authoritative chess book for a century.


13.15-14.00

Light lunch

14.00-15.00

Social Learning in Chess (in English)

Adrienne Teller (online): Musical Chess

Music and chess make a powerful combination to promote children in their cognitive and emotional development. Based on my experience as an educator and animator I am developing a curriculum and learning platform.


Luis Blasco de la Cruz: Social Chess Entrepreneurship in Spain

While internationally known as the cradle of modern chess and for its top tournaments, Spain has also produced many innovations in educational and social chess. I will give you an overview and delve deeper into the projects I have been leading with my club and chess academy.


All conference participants are cordially invited to attend:

Saturday, May 23 16:30

Masterclass with Elizbar Ubilava, Gymnasium Moosach (Pfingst-Open begins at 18:00)

Sunday, May 24

11:00 Concert at Nymphenburg Palace, Johannissaal