Beginner Weekly ✓ verified

Mahjong Teaching Tuesdays - Beginner Class

Polly and Esther

Veteran instructor Suzie Hauptman, who has taught mahjong for more than 30 years, leads this beginner class inside her Garfield boutique. She covers board setup, the rules, and how to choose a hand, then students put the lesson to use in an open-handed practice game. Arrive early to browse the shop, since paid students receive a discount on purchases made before class.

Mahjong Teaching Tuesdays - Beginner Class is a beginner class held at Polly and Esther in Pittsburgh, PA. It costs $30 ($30 per class payable in cash at the class; advance phone registration required). The class runs weekly. Schedule: Tuesdays 6:00-8:00 PM; part of the weekly Tuesday teaching series at the boutique, with formats rotating between beginner class and assisted play; call to register for a given Tuesday. Check Polly and Esther's site for the latest availability and booking.

Price$30 ($30 per class payable in cash at the class; advance phone registration required)
Duration2 hours
ScheduleTuesdays 6:00-8:00 PM; part of the weekly Tuesday teaching series at the boutique, with formats rotating between beginner class and assisted play; call to register for a given Tuesday
MaterialsNot included — see price note
Best forAdults 60+ who are new to mahjong or want a refresher
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At a Glance

ActivityMahjong Lessons
ClassMahjong Teaching Tuesdays - Beginner Class
LevelBeginner
Duration2 hours
Price$30 ($30 per class payable in cash at the class; advance phone registration required)
FrequencyWeekly
ScheduleTuesdays 6:00-8:00 PM; part of the weekly Tuesday teaching series at the boutique, with formats rotating between beginner class and assisted play; call to register for a given Tuesday
LocationPolly and Esther, Pittsburgh PA
ProviderPolly and Esther
BookingAvailable — see booking link

What you'll learn

  • Set up the game
  • Learn the rules of play
  • Select a hand
  • Play an open-handed practice game

Upcoming Sessions

  • 2026-10-27
  • 2026-11-03
  • 2026-11-10
  • 2026-11-17

Sessions change — confirm dates with Polly and Esther before booking.

Data Verification

Last checked: Oct 24, 2026

Source: Official provider website

✓ Verified by a human researcher

Prices and schedules change. Please confirm current details with Polly and Esther before booking.

More Mahjong Lessons in Pittsburgh

Common Questions About Mahjong Lessons in Pittsburgh

These are the questions people most often ask about mahjong lessons in Pittsburgh — answers apply city-wide, not just to this class.

How much do mahjong lessons cost in Pittsburgh?

Of the 2 mahjong lessons in Pittsburgh with a published price, the typical (median) starting price is $25, ranging from $20 to $30. These are the venues' own listed rates, not estimates, and each listing says what the price covers.

Do I need to know how to play before my first lesson?

No. Beginner sessions start with the tiles themselves — how the walls are built, the Charleston, and what a finished hand looks like. Most run a short teach-the-rules round before play.

Are tiles and the current mahjong card provided?

Tiles are supplied at almost every venue, and most classes lend or include the current year's card. If you'd like to confirm, the organiser's page says so.

How long does it take to learn mahjong?

Two hours is typical for a first lesson, and most people leave able to play a full hand with the card in front of them. Fluent recognition of the hands takes a season of regular play.

Is mahjong for older adults, or can anyone learn?

No. Tables run from retirees to college students — the game is pattern recognition and table talk, not a fitness test, and most groups are glad to have new players of any age.