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When it comes to the exciting new trends blossoming all over New York City, mahjong has proven to be one of the most popular. The game has seen a meteoric rise in popularity among New Yorkers of all ages over the last several years. If you are thinking about signing up for a class, know that you are joining a growing community of young professionals, retirees, and everyone in between.
Why Mahjong Is Having a Moment in New York
Some of the reasons for the game’s popularity are simple: it is a socially engaging activity that is seeing a rise in popularity at a time when it is becoming increasingly difficult for people to meet new people and build a social circle. It also has broad appeal, as it is intellectually stimulating but not seriously competitive.
In addition, for many generations the country version has existed as an American Jewish game for all ages, with modern classes aiming to bridge old with new.
What to Expect From a Good Class
Good classes will introduce students to the fundamentals of the game and then delve deeper into the strategies and nuances. A good instructor will spend time explaining the discard and pickup process, how to break up your tiles, how to read the discard pile and other players’ actions, and how to pursue certain combinations using the card, which all American Mahjong games use. A good class will also have instructors who can teach in tandem, practice what they preach, pair students up, and circulate through the room to answer questions. At the end of a good beginning class, the student should be able to play a full game on their own while continuing to develop their understanding of the game.
Where to Take a Class
Due to the game’s popularity, there is a wide variety of places to take a class, with varying teaching styles, class sizes, locations, and prices. Community centers throughout New York City offer affordable, accessible beginner mahjong classes in NYC, while boutique and specialty studios provide a more upscale experience at a higher price. Private social clubs have begun offering instruction as well and providing an atmosphere conducive to both learning and socializing. Small-group classes in a studio setting are the optimal choice for most people due to the one-on-one instruction, though it is important to inquire about pricing if you are considering a larger class.
Some yoga and wellness centers offer the occasional drop-in class as part of a series designed to supplement their residents’ mindfulness practices.
Scheduling and Pricing
Most class options are drop-ins or multiple-week courses. Drop-in options are a great way to try out the game if you’re unsure of your commitment level, while more serious students should consider a multi-week course. Single-day drop-in classes last for two to three hours and usually focus on introducing the fundamentals of the game. Courses can last anywhere from four to six weeks and are designed to help students build their skill set over time. Most classes are held in the evening, as this is optimal for working professionals, but some studios also offer weekend mornings for students with more flexible schedules. It is important to inquire if the price of a class includes rental sets for the tiles and the latest card.
What Students Are Saying
There is a common theme among reviews for most classes in New York City. Students who have taken these classes generally enjoy the atmosphere, in which they feel comfortable and able to learn, even if they walk into a class with virtually no experience. It is also common for students to praise instructors for their ability to explain the more nuanced aspects of the game, such as scoring, which can be especially confusing when a student is first introduced to them. The social aspect of the game is also a highlight for most students who take these classes. It is common for students to continue playing with one another after a course has ended, as most reviews note that the classes serve as an introduction to a broader social activity that continues weekly. Finally, a small minority of reviews mention that if you are looking for a more personalized learning experience tailored to your needs, it is important to ask the instructor about their expectations for the class, particularly regarding class sizes.
Choosing the Right Class for You
If you are considering taking a class for the first time, it is essential to identify your goals as a student. If you are a busy professional or a tourist who is only in the city for a short while, a drop-in class is a great way to try a sample game. If you want to learn the game properly, develop your own strategy, and build a social circle, a course at a reputable studio is a great way to start.
Either way, there is a class suited to your needs, and New Yorkers have seen a boom in options as the game’s popularity has skyrocketed across the city. As such, you should take advantage of the opportunity to join the hundreds of New Yorkers who have taken up the game and consider taking a class in this unique, exciting, and family-friendly game.