MahjPhD

Classes & Lessons

Lessons where you’re most comfortable.

Join a scheduled class at the JCC of the Lehigh Valley, or bring your own group together for a private lesson. Either way, MahjPhD brings instruction to the table.

JCC Classes Private Lessons

Scheduled classes

At the JCC of the Lehigh Valley

New to American Mah Jongg? Start here. No experience needed — just curiosity.

MahjPhD 101 · Foundations of American Mah Jongg

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

A two-session beginner course taught by Dr. Christopher Dubbs-Nazario. Includes the current NMJL card of hands.

What you’ll learn

  • The tiles — suits, dragons, winds, flowers, and jokers — and what to call them
  • How to read the NMJL card: colors, sections, and exposed vs. concealed hands
  • The Charleston, and how to pass with a plan
  • Calling, exposing, and when jokers can (and can’t) be used
  • Declaring Mah Jongg, scoring, and table etiquette
  • Your first taste of the RECoRD Method for thinking through each turn

Upcoming sessions

Wednesdays, Sept. 23 & 30
Evening · 5:30–8:30 pm
Sold out
Wednesdays, Oct. 14 & 21
Evening · 5:30–8:30 pm
Open

Register through the JCC. Both sessions are part of one course.

Register at LVJCC.org/mahjong

In development

After Learn to Play

Intermediate classes are in the works for players ready to go further:

  • Siamese Mah Jongg — the two-player variation, and a great way to practice reading the card
  • Tournament Ready — pace, etiquette, and decision-making for more competitive play

Want to hear when they’re scheduled? Email to be notified.

Keep playing

Open play at the JCC

The best way to lock in what you’ve learned is to play. The JCC hosts weekly open play sessions:

Monday1:30–3:30 pm
Wednesday1:00–3:30 pm
Sunday9:30 am–12:30 pm

Registration required. Free for JCC members; $5 for guests. Bring your card. Details at LVJCC.org.

Private & small-group lessons

Bring your group. We’ll bring the instruction.

Private lessons are available for individuals and small groups at every level — from your very first game through advanced strategy. Each session is shaped around who’s at the table and what you want to get better at.

Setting

Your home

Host a lesson for yourself or a few friends at your own table.

Setting

Your group

Already have a regular game? Level up together.

Setting

A public spot

Meet at a convenient, mutually agreed-upon location.

Setting

Your community

Clubs, libraries, and community spaces are welcome, too.

Choose your focus

Any level, taught with the same care.

  • 101Foundations of American Mah Jongg
    Learn the game and gain confidence.
  • 201Building Winning Hands
    Build stronger hands and make better choices.
  • 301Strategic Decision Making
    Develop real strategic reasoning.
  • 401Mastering Competitive Play
    Analyze complex situations and refine your play.

How it works

Three simple steps.

  1. Send an email. Tell me who’s playing, everyone’s experience level, and where you’d like to meet.
  2. We plan the session. We’ll pick a date and a focus that fits your group.
  3. Play and learn. Bring your questions — the “why” is the best part.
Book a Lesson

Questions

Good to know

I’ve never played. Is that okay?

Absolutely. The JCC Learn to Play course assumes no prior experience, and private lessons can start from the very first tile.

Do I need to buy an NMJL card?

The JCC Learn to Play course includes the current National Mah Jongg League card. For private lessons and open play, every player should have their own current NMJL card — the League releases a new one each spring.

Do I need my own Mah Jongg set for a private lesson?

If you have one, great — let me know when you reach out and we’ll plan around it. If not, mention that too.

Which rules do you teach?

American Mah Jongg, according to National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) rules.

How do I ask a question that isn’t here?

Email [email protected]. Questions are always welcome.

Already play? Let’s sharpen your strategy.

Private and small-group lessons are available at every level.

Bring Your Group