Backgammon Etiquette

Etiquette

Listening to music while playing

From:   Max Urban
Address:   max.urban@standardbank.co.za
Date:   13 October 2009
Subject:   Is music allowed while playing?
Forum:   rec.games.backgammon

A while ago I read Jake's article on GammonVillage, "A Sharp Stick," which shows a photo of Stick listening to music on his iPod. (Or is it a voice repeating TPs, DPs, MEs, gammon prices at the various scores?) I haven't played tournaments in Europe or the US. Is this allowed/frowned upon? Do you ask for permission from your opponent? Can you tell him to get stuffed if he tells you "no"?

Phil Simborg writes:

There are some very good reasons one might object to someone wearing headphones...here are just a few: 1. It is possible to listen to a recording of match equity tables or other helpful aids that might enhance your game; 2. Some people hum and sing along, bob their head or tap their fingers, and that can be very irritating; 3. In an important match, some people might take this as a sign of disrespect for the importance of the match, tournament or venue.

Chuck Bower writes:

This used to be covered in the US Rules. It was taken out for a reason I don't recall. 1990 Rule: 1.5 Aids. Once a match is in progress, neither play may use mechanical or written aids. Player may forbid his opponent from wearing headphones.

Daniel Murphy writes:

In Denmark headphones are not permitted unless opponent specifically gives permission, said permission which may be overruled by TD. In BIBA tournaments, "headphones can only be worn if opponent agrees."

Richard Munitz writes:

Personally, I don't particularly like my opponents with headphones on. I enjoy live play to a large extent because of the interaction over the board. And when someone has headphones on, they often don't hear what you are saying or have to pull them out of their ears and ask you to repeat what you said. If I want a cold and impersonal experience I can play online. Headphone use during live play seems rather anti-social to me. That said, I'm sure that some of these headphone guys find their opponents banter during play to be just as distracting and irritating and would rather tune it out with music. To each his own. The rules have clearly removed the provision regarding headphone use, so I think we are compelled to live with it as long as it does not interfere with play. What I will say positively is that I have never played with anyone wearing headphones and heard the music they were playing from my seat. Kudos to the headphone people for having the courtesy to keep the sound to themselves.

Stick writes:

I see no reason this shouldn't be legal. I have never asked permission from my opponent. I like backgammon for the social aspect, however there are times when headphones and music are necessary for me. If I'm playing someone I don't care for all that much, there's only one way for me to play a decent game and that's ignore them completely. Other times, when I'm just not awake, I don't want to be hassled with trying to communicate with people. To address Phil's rule and concerns. #1 -- Rofl. If someone has to listen to a MET it isn't going to help their game in the least. #2 -- Some people talk to their friends, shake their dice when it's my turn, and do other nuisance like things. As long as you make a penalty for this, I'll take a penalty for any head bobbing or humming. #3 -- If it is an important match. I want complete concentration, no outside interference, and this is what wearing headphones affords me. If I'm in the middle of MET calculations, race calculations, etc., I won't get interrupted midstream and have to start all over, this is esp. important when I'm playing on the clock.

Did you find the information in this article useful?

Do you have any comments you'd like to add?