Best Chess Instructor New Haven Near Me

4worldlovers:
Welcome to Jim Virtual Chess Lessons! I provide live online chess lessons to students ages 6-14. I’m James Santorelli and my passion has been teaching chess to children for over 30 years. I love teaching chess, introducing new players to the game and helping current players improve their game.

Jim Santorelli, is a nationally renowned authority on chess in education with over 30 years chess instruction experience whose passion for chess continues to help players to improve their skills and ability. Jim has successfully guided his students to 13 National Championships!

It has long been my greatest passion to bring students together to enjoy the world’s oldest and best game. My life has been dedicated to helping players improve their chess skills and I’m excited that students can schedule online chess lessons, from anywhere, to easily fit in their busy schedule. ZOOM makes you feel like you’re in the same room. Children of all ages can learn to play chess in a safe, online, interactive learning space led by chess instructor, Jim Santorelli.


At JVCL, we love teaching chess, introducing new players to the game, and helping current players continue to improve. Small group classes are organized based upon ability and combine lectures, interactive play and fun homework assignments. Combined, you will see a tremendous improvement in your chess ability.


Please note: private “in person” lessons are still available at our Southbury location.

Class placement is determined by age and chess experience. There’s an option for the absolute beginner (at least age 6) all the way to the tournament player. Review the class descriptions below to find out which level best suits your child or teen. If you need help with registration, reach out.

JVCL offers a variety of online chess lessons based on your playing ability. Online Chess Classes are available for kindergarten, elementary school, junior high, high school and homeschool students.

Students will learn all the rules of chess and basic strategies.

Students must have a playing knowledge of the game. They will learn advanced strategies and all aspects of tournament play.

Some tournament experience is preferred. students will be introduced. to the most trending developments in opening theory more advanced concepts in the middlegame and a solid understanding of endgame principles.

“With chess, children can practice deductive reasoning and use it in day to day situations. The idea with increasing the number of curricular programs is to improve children’s critical thinking skills and analytical abilities.”

A USCF Expert, Jim emphasizes strategy and planning in his chess and in his well-prepared classroom lectures.