What’s Mahjong? What’s the goal of the game? Why do we love it? Come join us and get addicted with the rest of us! Your lessons will be with Gaia Banovich, a Certified Mahjong Instructor and your fellow PYCC Mahjong player. Let’s get our Mahj on together!
MAHJONG 101 - Introduction to your new obsession | Tuesday September 17th, 2024
In Mahjong 101, we’ll cover
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The Tiles
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The Card
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The Deal
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Finding a Line
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The Charleston
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Calling a Tile
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Maintaining Pace of Play
We’ll meet on Tuesday, September 17th, at 12pm for a group lunch (optional). Then, we’ll have instruction from 1-4pm. The lesson is limited to 8 beginner players. Teamwork format will be used, you’ll be working with partners seated at your table. This is a free learning compliments of the PYCC Neighbors & Newcomers club. If attending lunch prior to training, please settle your lunch tab directly with PYCC.
The following week you will be able to play in our learner's group at a beginners table. Helpers will be available to guide you through this process as well. When you feel comfortable, you can join our regulars for play.
We always do an optional, but encouraged, group lunch at noon before we play.
If you can't make this session, we will offer another session in November.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT’S MAHJONG?
Mahjong is a fun and interesting tile game played with four people. Although you’re playing in a team, you’re playing as an individual and so there are no pressures or regrets peculiar to the partnership games. Mahjong originated in China and once it reached the American shores in the early 20th century, it was adapted into the version we enjoy today. With its engaging combination of luck and strategy, American Mahjong offers everyone a timeless game of exploration, challenge and friendship. Players draw and discard tiles hoping to match their 14 tiles to one of the lines on the National Mahjong League card. The first person to do so declares “Mahjong" and merriment ensues!
DOES MAHJONG REQUIRE MATH?
Don't worry, no! You don't need math or other superpowers. Just an open mind, desire to have fun, and enjoyment of a little learning along the way.
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING TO THE LESSON?
Nothing! We have everything you need to learn to play. Once you finish your lessons, you can join the PYCC Neighbors & Newcomers group for our regular Tuesday Mahjong afternoons where members bring their sets for use by the group. And, if you’re ready to purchase your own set, we can assist you with the selection.
I’VE PLAYED A LITTLE MAHJONG IN THE PAST, BUT I NEED A REFRESHER. IS THIS INSTRUCTION A GOOD OPTION FOR ME?
We’ll start with fundamentals and build on the foundation of the game for those who are just starting out. It’s an excellent option if you have never played, and also if you need a thorough refresher. If you are already a Mahjong player and just need some help on strategy, card reading, or other specifics of the game, then please wait for the Mahjong boot camp we’re planning to offer in the future.
I HAVE QUESTIONS. CAN YOU HELP?
Of course! Contact your instructor, Gaia Banovich, at 917.862.3004 via text or phone call.
