Learn to Play with Janelle

“Janelle discovered her passion for Mahjong early on, and her enthusiasm shines through in every lesson she gives. Her deep knowledge of the game’s rules and rich history allows her to teach with confidence and clarity. Her teaching style is detailed and engaging, making the game accessible and enjoyable for players of all skill levels.

—Dawn M. Sun Valley, Idaho


”Janelle is a fun and dynamic teacher! Her approach to teaching Mahjong is coherent yet bite-sized, covering the scope through her initial lesson. Overall, the experience left me curious, confident, and wanting more Mahjong time scheduled and asap!

—Alice R. Hailey, Idaho

Private Lessons

Janelle has taught a wide variety of groups, including:

  • Moms Night Out

  • Teen Girl Birthday Party

  • Couples Night

  • Multi Generational Family

  • Sorority Sisters

  • Work Colleagues

  • Supper Clubs

Lesson Levels

  • This is a two-part workshop over the course of two days where you will learn all about the game of Mahjong and how to play!

    In this workshop, you will learn:

    • history of the game

    • identifying the different types of tiles

    • understanding how to interpret the National Mahjong League card

    • how to build the walls

    • how to build a hand

    • how to Charleston

  • Once you have completed Level One, this workshop will help you gain confidence in identifying sections and building your hand while you are playing.

    You will learn about:

    • joker rules

    • discards

    • calling a tile

    • table rules

    • Mahjong manners

  • This is for players who have completed Level One and Two and are able to play on their own. An instructor will be supporting with basic strategy and learning about pivoting throughout the game.

  • Mahjong Club is a social atmosphere that includes open play and guided play led by a facilitator with plenty of repetition and patience for mastering rules.  Prerequisite is completing lessons 1 and 2.  Player will have the opportunity to attend up to 5 sessions a month.

  • “Several friends tried to teach me mahjong but it was not until Janelle explained that it made sense. She took the time to build from the basics up. It took two sessions (four hours total) but now I am able to play, enjoy the game, and while I am still learning, I have a strong, solid foundation to build upon whereas before I was always somewhat floundering. Thank you Janelle! You have a gift!”

    Emily G., private student

  • “I've been taking lessons with Janelle for the past few weeks, and it's been such a rewarding experience! I was pretty nervous at first since l'm a total beginner, but Janelle made everything so easy to understand. She is incredibly patient and always takes the time to explain things in a way that makes sense.
What I really love is how she doesn't just teach you the rules, but helps you understand the strategy behind the game. I've started to feel more confident with each lesson, and I'm actually starting to think ahead during games, which is something I never thought would happen so quickly. Plus, Janelle is very encouraging, which makes learning feel fun instead of stressful.
If you're thinking about learning mahjong, I can't recommend Janelle enough. Whether you're just starting out or looking to improve, she takes the time to cater each lesson to what you need.”

    Alison C., student at Sequoia Swim and Tennis Club

  • “Janelle combines the perfect balance of patience, instruction and humor. I was a bit anxious to learn, but within the first two sessions, I felt I had a grasp of this amazing fun game. I learn something new at her classes even though I have been playing for four months. Janelle’s incredible knowledge about the inside of the strategies of the game help you to pivot or play defensively. Her instructions will give you the advantage to say “MAHJONG” and win the game. Whether you choose to learn with your own small group or one of her bigger events, you have found the best teacher!”

    Tricia H., Student and Huge Fan

Book a Consultation

Are you not sure what you’re looking for? Let’s chat!