If you are looking for a chess coach and you’re not sure where to start, read this article by GM Avetik Grigoryan from ChessMood:
How to Find the Right Chess Coach | Ultimate Guide
And here’s a few highly rated chess grandmasters that offer either personal coaching or online courses:
- GM Valery Filippov (Online Coaching)
- GM Igor Smirnov (Video Courses; affiliate link)
- GM Mackenzie Molner (Online Coaching)
- ChessMood (Training platform run by grandmasters; affiliate link)
How much do grandmasters charge for coaching?
The coaching fees for chess grandmasters can vary widely depending on factors such as the grandmaster’s reputation, coaching experience, demand, and the format of coaching (in-person, online, group sessions, individual sessions, etc.).
Grandmasters usually charge anywhere from $50 to $200 per hour for individual coaching sessions. Group sessions or online courses may have different pricing structures, with fees ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand for longer-term programs.
It’s also common for grandmasters to offer package deals or discounts for multiple sessions booked in advance. Ultimately, the cost of coaching with a grandmaster can depend on several factors, so it’s best to reach out to individual grandmasters or coaching services to inquire about their specific rates.
Is it worth hiring a grandmaster chess coach?
Deciding if hiring a grandmaster chess coach is worth it depends on your goals, how much effort you’re willing to put in, and your budget.
While grandmasters bring advanced knowledge and experience to the table, being a grandmaster doesn’t automatically make someone a good teacher. Teaching requires different skills, like being able to explain concepts clearly and adapt to different learning styles. So, even though a grandmaster might have a deep understanding of chess, they may not necessarily be the best at teaching it, especially to beginners or lower-rated players.
Grandmaster coaches often work better with more experienced players who can understand and make the most of their advanced guidance. Coaching with a grandmaster can be pricey, so it’s important to consider if it’s the right investment for you. If it’s not feasible, there are still plenty of other resources like books and videos that can help you improve your game.
Ultimately, it’s about finding the best way for you to reach your chess goals within your means.