Program Type: Concert

Get ready for an evening of music as our Chess Pocket Park Concerts continue! On September 11, 2026, 7:00-8:00 pm, we are proud to spotlight REVÉ’s local sounds. Join us at Tilles Park, 5900 Fyler Avenue, for a perfect summer hour of music and strategy.

About the Performer

Saint Louis–based singer-songwriter REVÉ is a colorful artist who musically paints stories through her work. With a voice that is both powerful and intimate, she blends R&B, Soul, Jazz, and acoustic folk into a sound uniquely her own. Inspired by the songwriting of Stevie Wonder, the melodic playfulness of Ella Fitzgerald, and the expressive guitar work of Emily King, she fearlessly explores themes of love and life, as heard on her debut EP, 12:12.

Know Before You Go

• What to Bring: These events are outdoors and casual. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, and drinks to enjoy during the performance.
• Cost: Admission is completely FREE.

About the Chess Pocket Park Concerts

Experience the harmony of music and community this summer with the WCHOF Music Series’ Chess Pocket Park Concerts, a collection of fun, free outdoor performances held in various Saint Louis parks. These concerts are designed to be engaging community events that spotlight local performers and raise awareness of the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries.

These concerts take place adjacent to the iconic stone chess tables installed by our sister organization, the Saint Louis Chess Club. We call these vibrant community spaces Chess Pocket Parks, and they serve as the perfect backdrop for making chess accessible to everyone while enjoying an hour of exceptional music.

Learn & Play While You Listen

We are bringing the board to the beat! At every event, friendly chess instructors will be stationed at the tables to encourage open chess play for all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a grandmaster or a complete beginner, we invite you to learn chess here. Instructors will provide easy-to-follow introductions to the game and answer any questions you have about chess strategy or local programs.

More Chess to Explore

Have a look at the full map of park locations and find your nearest Chess Pocket Park to play today! Check out the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ website for more information on world-class exhibits and upcoming programs!

Get ready for an evening of music as our Chess Pocket Park Concerts continue! On August 14, 2026, 7:00-8:00 pm, we are proud to spotlight the local sounds of 18&Counting. Join us at Love Bank Park, 2851 Cherokee Street, for a perfect summer hour of music and strategy.

About the Performer

Saint Louis polymath Stan Chisholm, performing as 18&Counting, is a staple of the city’s creative community, working as an experimental musician, vinyl DJ, and visual artist. His immersive live experiences mutate ideas of hip-hop and electronic music into unique sonic visions. Learn more on his website.

Know Before You Go

• What to Bring: These events are outdoors and casual. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, and drinks to enjoy during the performance.
• Cost: Admission is completely FREE.

About the Chess Pocket Park Concerts

Experience the harmony of music and community this summer with the WCHOF Music Series’ Chess Pocket Park Concerts, a collection of fun, free outdoor performances held in various Saint Louis parks. These concerts are designed to be engaging community events that spotlight local performers and raise awareness of the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries.

These concerts take place adjacent to the iconic stone chess tables installed by our sister organization, the Saint Louis Chess Club. We call these vibrant community spaces Chess Pocket Parks, and they serve as the perfect backdrop for making chess accessible to everyone while enjoying an hour of exceptional music.

Learn & Play While You Listen

We are bringing the board to the beat! At every event, friendly chess instructors will be stationed at the tables to encourage open chess play for all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a grandmaster or a complete beginner, we invite you to learn chess here. Instructors will provide easy-to-follow introductions to the game and answer any questions you have about chess strategy or local programs.

More Chess to Explore

• Have a look at the full map of park locations and find your nearest Chess Pocket Park to play today!
• Check out the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ website for more information on world-class exhibits and upcoming programs!

Get ready for an evening of music as our Chess Pocket Park Concerts continue! On July 10, 2026, 7:00-8:00 pm, we are proud to spotlight the local sounds of Bobby Stevens. Join us at Carondelet Park, 3900 Holly Hills, for a perfect summer hour of music and strategy.

About the Performer

Saint Louis-based singer-songwriter and performer Bobby Stevens blends Rock n’ Roll, Soul, Punk, Rhythm & Blues, and Rustbelt Folk. His performances feature signature “whistlin’ tunes” that are sure to have your toes tapping and your heart swelling. Learn more on Instagram.

Know Before You Go

• What to Bring: These events are outdoors and casual. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, and drinks to enjoy during the performance.
• Cost: Admission is completely FREE.

About the Chess Pocket Park Concerts

Experience the harmony of music and community this summer with the WCHOF Music Series’ Chess Pocket Park Concerts, a collection of fun, free outdoor performances held in various Saint Louis parks. These concerts are designed to be engaging community events that spotlight local performers and raise awareness of the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries.

These concerts take place adjacent to the iconic stone chess tables installed by our sister organization, the Saint Louis Chess Club. We call these vibrant community spaces Chess Pocket Parks, and they serve as the perfect backdrop for making chess accessible to everyone while enjoying an hour of exceptional music.

Learn & Play While You Listen

We are bringing the board to the beat! At every event, friendly chess instructors will be stationed at the tables to encourage open chess play for all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a grandmaster or a complete beginner, we invite you to learn chess here. Instructors will provide easy-to-follow introductions to the game and answer any questions you have about chess strategy or local programs.

More Chess to Explore

Have a look at the full map of park locations and find your nearest Chess Pocket Park to play today! Check out the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ website for more information on world-class exhibits and upcoming programs!

Get ready for an evening of music as our Chess Pocket Park Concerts continue! On June 12, 2026, 7:00-8:00 pm, we are proud to spotlight the local sounds of Charlie Berry. Join us at Francis Park, Eichelberger Street & Donovan Avenue for a perfect summer hour of music and strategy.

About the Performer

Saint Louis native Charlie Berry, grandson of the legendary Chuck Berry, found his musical identity through the guitar while performing in local bands and at regional open jams. Since moving to Milwaukee in 2023, he has toured across the United States and internationally, including performances in Bordeaux and Tokyo. He assuredly makes his mark on the music world by performing his grandfather’s hits alongside his own original compositions.

Know Before You Go

• What to Bring: These events are outdoors and casual. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, and drinks to enjoy during the performance.
• Cost: Admission is completely FREE.

About the Chess Pocket Park Concerts

Experience the harmony of music and community this summer with the WCHOF Music Series’ Chess Pocket Park Concerts, a collection of fun, free outdoor performances held in various Saint Louis parks. These concerts are designed to be engaging community events that spotlight local performers and raise awareness of the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries.

These concerts take place adjacent to the iconic stone chess tables installed by our sister organization, the Saint Louis Chess Club. We call these vibrant community spaces Chess Pocket Parks, and they serve as the perfect backdrop for making chess accessible to everyone while enjoying an hour of exceptional music.

Learn & Play While You Listen

We are bringing the board to the beat! At every event, friendly chess instructors will be stationed at the tables to encourage open chess play for all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a grandmaster or a complete beginner, we invite you to learn chess here. Instructors will provide easy-to-follow introductions to the game and answer any questions you have about chess strategy or local programs.

More Chess to Explore

Have a look at the full map of park locations and find your nearest Chess Pocket Park to play today! Check out the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ website for more information on world-class exhibits and upcoming programs!

Get ready for an evening of music as our Chess Pocket Park Concerts continue! On Friday, May 8, 7:00-8:00 pm, we are proud to spotlight the local sounds of The Adam Maness Trio. Join us at Piazza Imo, 2109 Marconi Ave., for a perfect summer hour of music and strategy.

About the Performer

The Adam Maness Trio showcases their signature blend of sophisticated improvisation and reimagined pop classics. Led by pianist Adam Maness, with bassist Bob DeBoo and drummer Kaleb Kirby, this ensemble bridges musical worlds through dynamic interplay. From Ellington to Eilish, the trio transforms every tune into a fresh musical conversation. 

Know Before You Go

• What to Bring: These events are outdoors and casual. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, and drinks to enjoy during the performance.
• Cost: Admission is completely FREE.

About the Chess Pocket Park Concerts

Experience the harmony of music and community this summer with the WCHOF Music Series’ Chess Pocket Park Concerts, a collection of fun, free outdoor performances held in various Saint Louis parks. These concerts are designed to be engaging community events that spotlight local performers and raise awareness of the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries.

These concerts take place adjacent to the iconic stone chess tables installed by our sister organization, the Saint Louis Chess Club. We call these vibrant community spaces Chess Pocket Parks, and they serve as the perfect backdrop for making chess accessible to everyone while enjoying an hour of exceptional music.

Learn & Play While You Listen

We are bringing the board to the beat! At every event, friendly chess instructors will be stationed at the tables to encourage open chess play for all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a grandmaster or a complete beginner, we invite you to learn chess here. Instructors will provide easy-to-follow introductions to the game and answer any questions you have about chess strategy or local programs.

More Chess to Explore

• Have a look at the full map of park locations and find your nearest Chess Pocket Park to play today!

• Check out the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ main page for more information on world-class exhibits and upcoming programs!

Join us for a luminous evening of festive soul as the WCHOF Music Series celebrates the spirit of the season. Featuring the incomparable Brian Owens and a special guest, this concert is an essential cultural event for music lovers and a highlight of the Saint Louis concerts calendar.

The performance takes place at the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries, a unique Saint Louis museum and art gallery that offers an unforgettable atmosphere where strategic games meet sonic masterpieces.

The Program: A Soulful Holiday Celebration

Experience a journey through seasonal warmth and rhythmic grace with:

• Traditional Carols (Reimagined): Timeless melodies infused with the heart of modern soul.
• Holiday Favorites: A curated selection of classics showcasing the heart of Saint Louis soul.

The Performers: Brian Owens & Friends

This exceptional evening features world-class musicians led by the acclaimed Brian Owens. WCHOF Music Director Brian Owens has curated this exceptional program, selecting pieces that reflect the mission of the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries to celebrate the intersection of art, culture, and high strategy. The ensemble will bring vibrant and emotive depth to these cornerstone holiday works.Arianna String Quartet is currently celebrating 30 years of music-making and remains in demand globally.

Thematic Connection: Harmony and Strategy

Just as a Grandmaster finds beauty in the perfect alignment of pieces, Brian Owens discovers harmony in the blending of gospel roots and classic soul. This performance bridges the gap between the intellectual rigor of the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries and the raw emotional power of the holiday season, proving that both strategy and song require a masterful touch.

Venue, Tickets, and Full Schedule

Experience this concert surrounded by our incredible permanent and rotating art exhibitions and history exhibits.

Full Evening Schedule:

• 5:30 PM: Doors Open (Cash bar available)
• 6:00 PM: Artist Talk with WCHOF Music Director Brian Owens
• 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Concert Performance

Details:

• Venue: World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries
• Tickets: $25 General Admission, $20 WCHOF Members.
• Note: Each ticket includes one complimentary drink ticket.
• Seating is extremely limited for this intimate performance held inside our gallery, offering a rare, up-close listening experience.

Can’t make it to the concert? Be sure to watch the livestream on the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ YouTube channel.

Join us for a celebratory evening of classical music as the WCHOF Music Series celebrates the triumphant conclusion of its 2026 season. Featuring musicians from the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO), this concert is an essential cultural event for music lovers and a highlight of the Saint Louis concerts calendar.

The performance takes place at the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries, a unique Saint Louis museum and art gallery that offers an unforgettable atmosphere where strategic games meet sonic masterpieces.

The Program: A Hollywood Finish

Experience a journey through the late Romantic tradition and the birth of cinematic sound with:

• Piano Quintet in E Major, Op. 15 (1921): Erich Wolfgang Korngold’s masterpiece is defined by showstopping virtuosity and soaring melodies that reflect the opulence of the Golden Age
• Powerful selections from the world of film scores, seamlessly bridging the gap between classical idioms and narrative impact

The Performers: Collaborative Excellence

This exceptional evening features five world-class performers, including premier SLSO talent. WCHOF Music Director Brian Woods has curated this exceptional program, selecting pieces that reflect the mission of the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries to celebrate the intersection of art, culture, and high strategy. The ensemble will bring technical brilliance and emotional depth to these cornerstone works.

Thematic Connection: From Prodigy to Premiere

Before becoming a legendary film composer, Korngold was an Austrian prodigy praised by Richard Strauss. Much like a grandmaster calculating a complex endgame, Korngold’s Quintet requires intense focus and strategic precision to navigate its notoriously difficult passages, making the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries the perfect stage for such a triumphant finale.

Venue, Tickets, and Full Schedule

Experience this concert surrounded by our incredible permanent and rotating art exhibitions and history exhibits.

Full Evening Schedule:

• 5:30 PM: Doors Open (Cash bar available)
• 6:00 PM: Artist Talk with WCHOF Music Director Brian Woods
• 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Concert Performance

Details:

• Venue: World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries
• Tickets: $25 General Admission, $20 WCHOF Members.
• Each ticket includes one complimentary drink ticket.
• Seating is extremely limited for this intimate performance held inside our gallery, offering a rare, up-close listening experience.

Can’t make it to the concert? Be sure to watch the livestream on the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ YouTube channel.

Join us for a captivating evening of classical music as the WCHOF Music Series celebrates the profound artistry of chamber performance. Featuring the world-renowned Arianna String Quartet, the performance takes place at the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries, a unique Saint Louis museum and art gallery that offers an unforgettable atmosphere where strategic games meet sonic masterpieces.

The Program: French Romantic Grandeur

Experience a journey through late-Romantic intensity with:

• Concerto for Violin, Piano, and String Quartet, Op. 21 (1891): A monumental work by Ernest Chausson filled with bombastic drama and quiet lyricism, showcasing strings and piano at their very best.

The Performers: Arianna String Quartet, Janet Sung, and Brian Woods

This exceptional evening features the acclaimed Arianna String Quartet, joined by virtuoso violinist Janet Sung. Celebrated for her “riveting” playing and exquisite tone, Ms. Sung has performed as a soloist with leading orchestras worldwide and serves as the Head of Strings at DePaul University. WCHOF Music Director Brian Woods has curated this exceptional program, selecting pieces that reflect the mission of the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries to celebrate the intersection of art, culture, and high strategy. An internationally acclaimed pianist and native of Saint Louis, Woods brings both technical brilliance and a charismatic presentational style to the gallery stage. Based in Saint Louis since 2000, the Arianna String Quartet is currently celebrating 30 years of music-making and remains in demand globally.

Thematic Connection: Creative Counterpoint

Ernest Chausson’s unique “Concerto” structure—pairing a solo violin and piano against a string quartet—mirrors the complex layers of a grandmaster’s strategy. Just as a chess opening balances individual tension with collective harmony, this performance thrives on the intricate interplay between its diverse musical voices within our gallery walls.

Venue, Tickets, and Full Schedule

Experience this concert surrounded by our incredible permanent and rotating art exhibitions and history exhibits.

Full Evening Schedule:

• 5:30 PM: Doors Open (Cash bar available)
• 6:00 PM: Artist Talk with WCHOF Music Director Brian Woods
• 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Concert Performance

Details:

• Venue: World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries
• Tickets: $25 General Admission, $20 WCHOF Members.
• Note: Each ticket includes one complimentary drink ticket.
• Seating is extremely limited for this intimate performance held inside our gallery, offering a rare, up-close listening experience.

Can’t make it to the concert? Be sure to watch the livestream on the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ YouTube channel.

Join us for a soulful evening of contemporary roots music as the WCHOF Music Series celebrates the rich traditions of American songwriting. Featuring the acclaimed artistry of Neil Salsich, this concert is an essential cultural event for music lovers and a highlight of the Saint Louis concerts calendar.

The performance takes place at the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries, a unique Saint Louis museum and art gallery that offers an unforgettable atmosphere where strategic games meet sonic masterpieces.

The Program: Soul, Blues, and Rock

Experience a journey through heartfelt storytelling and melodic grit with:

• Modern Originals: Honest compositions that bridge classic folk with contemporary narratives.
• Soulful Covers: A selection of timeless tracks reimagined through Salsich’s distinctive, road-tested lens.

The Performer: Neil Salsich

This exceptional evening features the national-level talent of singer-songwriter-guitarist Neil Salsich. Known as the frontman for roots rock band The Mighty Pines and a celebrated contestant on NBC’s The Voice, he possesses a voice that evokes the golden age of American music. You can preview his soulful performance style here. WCHOF Music Director Brian Owens and Next Move Artist-in-Residence Malena Smith have curated this exceptional programming, selecting artists who reflect the mission of the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries to celebrate the intersection of art, culture, and high strategy. The soloist will bring dynamic energy and emotional depth to these cornerstone works.

Thematic Connection: The Art of the Solo

In both chess and music, the solo performer must rely on total focus and strategic intuition. Just as a grandmaster navigates the board alone, Neil Salsich uses his guitar and voice to command the gallery space, proving that one individual can create a world of complex beauty through skill and passion.

Venue, Tickets, and Full Schedule

Experience this concert surrounded by our incredible permanent and rotating art exhibitions and history exhibits.

Full Evening Schedule:

• 5:30 PM: Doors Open (Cash bar available)
• 6:00 PM: Artist Talk with WCHOF Music Director Brian Owens
• 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Concert Performance

Details:

• Venue: World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries
• Tickets: $25 General Admission, $20 WCHOF Members.
• Note: Each ticket includes one complimentary drink ticket.
• Seating is extremely limited for this intimate performance held inside our gallery, offering a rare, up-close listening experience.

Can’t make it to the concert? Be sure to watch the livestream on the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ YouTube channel.

Join us for a sophisticated evening of contemporary jazz and soul as the WCHOF Music Series celebrates the timeless artistry of a global icon. Featuring the luminous vocals of Malena Smith and her superb ensemble, this concert is an essential cultural event for music lovers and a highlight of the Saint Louis concerts calendar. The performance takes place at the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries, a unique museum and art gallery that offers an unforgettable atmosphere where strategic games meet sonic masterpieces.

The Program: Come Away with Me

Experience a journey through the songbook of Norah Jones with:

• The Artistry of Norah Jones: A heartfelt tribute to the 10-time Grammy-winning artist.
• A Multi-Genre Fusion: Masterful interpretations blending jazz, blues, soul, country, folk, and pop.
• From Hits to Deep Cuts: A curated selection of beloved classics and hidden gems that honor one of music’s most distinctive voices.

The Performer: Malena Smith

This exceptional evening features Malena Smith alongside her band of world-class musicians. Smith is a celebrated storyteller known for her elegant phrasing and vulnerable, thought-provoking original works. The ensemble will bring emotional and technical depth to these cornerstone songs. Next Move Artist-in-Residence Malena Smith has curated this program, selecting songs that reflect our mission to celebrate the intersection of art, culture, and excellence.

Thematic Connection: Strategy in Song

Just as a Grandmaster carefully layers a Sicilian Defense, Norah Jones revolutionized the early 2000s music scene by meticulously layering disparate genres into a cohesive, winning aesthetic. This performance honors that strategic brilliance, inviting listeners to find the quiet power within the melody while surrounded by the world’s most iconic chess artifacts.

Venue, Tickets, and Full Schedule

Experience this concert surrounded by our incredible permanent and rotating art exhibitions and history exhibits.

Full Evening Schedule:

• 5:30 PM: Doors Open (Cash bar available)
• 6:00 PM: Artist Talk with WCHOF Music Director Brian Owens
• 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Concert Performance

Details:

• Venue: World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries
• Tickets: $25 General Admission, $20 WCHOF Members.
• Note: Each ticket includes one complimentary drink ticket.
• Seating is extremely limited for this intimate performance held inside our gallery, offering a rare, up-close listening experience.

Can’t make it to the concert? Be sure to watch the livestream on the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ YouTube channel.