Mahjong Lessons
Join Ali Barbera at The Parlor for American Mahjong lessons that blend thoughtful instruction with lively play. Whether you’re new to the game or refining your strategy, you’ll build confidence at the table.
Ali Barbera grew up around the game table, where laughter, connection, and friendly competition were part of everyday life. After relocating to Pound Ridge in 2021, she brought her passion for teaching games that bring people together.
A member of the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) and a certified Oh My Mahjong instructor, Ali teaches by official NMJL rules. She works with both beginners and seasoned players to build confidence, strengthen strategy, and deepen understanding of the game.
Patient and encouraging, Ali believes mahjong is a balance of skill, strategy, luck, and community, and she creates a welcoming, engaging experience for everyone at the table.
Stay tuned for additional lessons in Bridge, Backgammon and more!
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Introduction to American Mah Jongg. No prior knowledge needed! This class is appropriate for students brand new to the game. You will learn the tiles and card and play "messy" Mahjong. This class is two hours of instruction and game play and includes the NMJL card to keep. Pair Mahj 101 & Mahj 102 together for a complete introduction to the game. The follow-up lesson, Mahj 102, introduces dealing and explains the Charleston.
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Continuation of an introduction to American Mah Jongg. Must have previously completed Mahj 101. Learn how to deal, the Charleston, and play a complete game. This class is two hours of instruction and game play. Pair Mahj 101 & Mahj 102 together for a complete introduction to the game.
Note - I suggest Mahj 101 & Mahj 102 are offered as a package where they must sign up for both lessons (or even a package of Mahj 101/102, plus two Beginner Guided Play lessons).
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This class is appropriate for beginners - after you have completed Mahj 101 and Mahj 102, or if you have already completed introductory American Mah Jongg lessons. In this class, you will play a game while receiving guidance on which hand to play, you will receive reminders on the rules, and you can ask questions and receive immediate feedback. This class is two hours of instruction, and you will practice everything that was initially taught until you feel comfortable joining a game on your own.
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Learn how to modify the game so you can play even when short on players. You will learn how to play with two players and three players. You must already know how to play. This class is two hours of instruction and game play.
Note - 2-player is commonly called Siamese, but I think the term is outdated and prefer to call it 2-player. Ideally, the class size would be 12 people, so that groupings work for 2-player and 3-player.
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Move beyond just knowing the rules. Elevate your game play and learn tips for the Charleston, early-in-the-game vs. end-of-the-game strategy and scoring. This class is two hours of instruction and game play.
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Learn the new card and prepare to pivot. This class is two hours of instruction and game play.
Bridge Lessons
Jill is a Platinum Life Master with nearly 12,000 master points and has placed in the top ten of several national bridge events in recent years. With over a decade of teaching experience, she brings both expertise and warmth to every table.
She currently teaches at Greenwich Country Club and through Scarsdale Adult Education, and works with students in both group settings and private lessons—whether at local clubs, in clients’ homes, or seasonally in Miami. This summer, she will also be leading courses at several country clubs throughout the area.
Jill’s approach to teaching is rooted in making the game approachable, engaging, and genuinely enjoyable. She believes every question is welcome and that anyone can learn to love bridge with the right guidance.
In addition to teaching, Jill is an experienced director, currently directing games at Greenwich Country Club, Riverside Yacht Club, and interclub leagues throughout the summer.
Originally trained as a pianist, Jill spent over 35 years teaching and performing music. This foundation shapes her thoughtful, clear, and encouraging teaching style—bringing both structure and creativity to the way she shares the game.