We value your privacy. This site uses two types of cookies:
strictly necessary cookies (session, login, shopping cart, and preference cookies required for the site to function — always on), and
analytics cookies (Google Analytics, used to understand how the site is used — only set if you accept).
We do not use advertising or marketing trackers. Learn more in our
Terms of Use and
Privacy Policy.
American Mahjong Introductory Course
American Mahjong for Beginners Introductory Class - taught by Leigh Hall Wilhelm
This beginner friendly 4-day introductory course is perfect for anyone curious about the game or looking for a new social pastime. You'll learn the basics from understanding the tiles, setting up the game and learning how to read the 2026 National Mah Jongg League Player’s Card. No experience is necessary. Each week will build off the previous week's lesson, so it's important students try their best to attend every week.
Students in the 4-day introductory class MUST also purchase a Player's Card (link below) if they don't already own one.
American Mahjong for Beginners: Saturday Boot Camp - Want to learn American Mahjong but prefer to do it all in one day? This 4-hour beginner boot camp offers an immersive, hands-on introduction to the game.
You’ll learn the fundamentals, including the tiles and suits, how to set up the game, and how to read and use the 2026 National Mah Jongg League Player’s Card, complete the Charleston, build hands, and play the game.
Your 2026 National Mah Jongg League Player’s Card is included with the boot camp registration ($15 value) and is yours to keep. Class size is limited to 12 participants to allow for plenty of instruction and guided play. Light snacks are welcome.
2026 Player's Card Link: National Mah Jongg League
(Note: REGISTRANTS SHOULD ORDER THE 2026 PLAYERS CARD. IF YOU ARE JOINING OUR BOOT CAMP, THE 2026 PLAYERS CARD IS INCLUDED IN YOUR REGISTRATION).
Meet the instructor - Leigh Hall-Wilhelm:
Leigh is our American Mahjong Instructor. She discovered American Mahjong in 2021 and quickly fell in love with the game’s blend of strategy, skill, and social connection. After struggling to find someone to teach her the basics, she became determined to create a more welcoming path for others to learn. Since then, she has been playing regularly and sharing her passion by teaching beginners in a clear, supportive way. Her classes focus on building a strong foundation—covering the fundamentals, introducing beginner strategy, and guiding students toward confidently playing on their own. By the end, you may still play slowly, but you’ll be playing independently—and that’s the goal. After all, Mahjong is a game of practice (and a good sense of humor).
A Connecticut native, Leigh moved to Woodbury in 2021 after many years in NYC. Leigh runs the NYC catering department for Murray’s Cheese—so yes, she’s always happy to talk cheese and build a beautiful spread. When she’s not at the Mahjong table or talking all things dairy, you’ll find her deeply involved in her community: volunteering in two roles at Steep Rock Preserve, reading her way through two to three books a week, attending the book club she founded in Woodbury, or getting a little creative at her Thursday night pottery sessions.
No refunds are given once a program has begun. If a program is canceled by us for lack of registration or any other reason, a full refund will be given.