Where can I Learn Bridge?

When Lori Cordeiro said "I don't play bridge. My parents tried to teach me when I was younger, I just did not get it. I'm glad you enjoy it!", it suddenly occurred to me that some of you might be interested to learn the game. What will you do when you get older?

Well, teaching the game here is beyond the scope of this blog but I can surely give a few links along the way, that will help you start. What I can do, however, is answering your questions either in the Q and A section or as a separate article. Most of the bridge tutoring sites are static, some are really dated and you may not find someone to ask for a clarification most of the time. If that is the case, think of this place as a last refuge and I will do my best. Now, without further ado...

For the novice I can really recommend Richard Pavlicek's site for bridge players. In addition quizzes, articles, bidding practice, polls and contests, puzzles and humor, Richard also teaches bridge on-line. Starting from the basics, he very nicely wraps up the essentials of the game in a clear and efficient manner;

Bridge is by far the greatest card game of all, and it can provide immense challenge and enjoyment for the rest of your life. This lesson is intended for the complete beginner, one who knows nothing, or almost nothing, about bridge. If that is you, read on.

Where to begin? Bridge is more complicated than other card games, and beginners are sometimes discouraged by this. Relax! After this lesson you will understand the card play involved and be well on your way to becoming a bridge player. Take your time! There is no hurry. And have a deck of cards handy.

I concur his last advice, have a deck of cards ready.

Let the Game Begin!

Contract bridge is a fine game. Unlike casino games where betting techniques based on statistics play a great deal, it is a trick-taking game of skill and chance.

A lot has been said about the element of chance but let me add a few things, too. If we compare bridge, for example to chess which is a pure skill game, bridge is practical whereas chess is theoretical. Life is not and can not be a game of chess for the simple reason that there is no uncertainty in chess. Bridge, however, is the life itself. It asks of you to use your skills no matter what the odds are. You have to accept bad luck just like you would accept a rainy day. Bridge is real whereas chess is surreal.

Here in this web log, I will ramble about bidding systems and theory, conventions, carding, declarer and defense play, players, hands, tournaments and events around the world, bridge software and links, you name it. It will be about bridge and only bridge. I do not consider myself an authority but I have degrees at a national level. So, this might comfort you to some extent if you are one those who demand credentials for everything said and written. For the light-hearted, this blog will be another place to spend -hopefully- quality time.

Now, let the game begin!