Tools
Tiles, and suits and the card — oh my! Get to know your tiles, the suits, and how to read the National Mah Jongg League card with confidence.
2.5 hoursYour first tile. A new tradition.
Discover the joy of Mahjong. No experience needed—just bring your curiosity.
A beautiful beginning.
Get to know the tiles, the rhythm of the game, and the excitement of building your first hand. Our learning experience is designed to make the table feel welcoming from the very first round.
Explore Upcoming Lessons Find Your Table
A table in progress—the league card resting at your elbow, tiles racked and ready.
The beginner series
The Opening Wall
Three lessons, each a 2.5-hour time slot — 7.5 hours at the table, from naming your first tile to a full game you can play on your own. Come with a group of friends or come by yourself; Sandra fills the table so there are always four to play.
Rules
Dealing, drawing, discarding, and calling. Learn the mechanics of play, the flow of the Charleston, and the rules that guide every hand from opening deal to proclaiming Mahjong.
2.5 hoursRituals
Table etiquette, pacing, strategy, and unwritten customs. Put it all together in live play with Sandra at your shoulder — mastering the art of the table so you’re ready to graduate to your own games.
2.5 hours- The course
- 3 lessons
- Each session
- 2.5 hours
- Per person
- $249
- The table
- 4 players
Three Ways to Take Your Seat
Whether you have a full table ready to play or you're arriving solo, there's always a seat waiting for you.
Join a Beginners Gathering
Step into a scheduled introductory event.
Perfect if you want to learn the basics in a lively group setting. Come solo or with a friend, meet fellow new players, and learn the essentials together.
View upcoming events →Your Own Private Table of Four
Gather three friends and learn together.
The signature Mandell Mahjong experience. Sandra brings the tiles, racks and the complete three-lesson Opening Wall to you — you provide the table, chairs and good company. $249 per player.
Request a private table →Let Sandra Match Your Table
Come solo or as a pair — she'll find your four.
You don't need a whole group to start. Tell Sandra your schedule and town, and she'll pair you with other beginners in Nassau or Suffolk County to form your learning table.
Ask to be matched →Save me a seat.
Tell Sandra how you'd like to learn and when you're free. She'll reach out to set your dates and build your table.