Bird Bam Beth Book a Class
Players around a mahjong table at a Bird Bam Beth night in Portland

Mahjong taught by a real teacher. Played like a party.

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Next Open Play: Thursday, November 19 · Ora et Labora
Try our Open Play and Leagues

Learn, Play, or CompeteEvery player starts somewhere.

Wherever you are with Mahjong, there’s a seat at the table with us. Come learn to play American Mahjong with our team and join a vibrant community.

  1. Learn
  2. Play
  3. Compete

Learn

A Bird Bam Beth beginner mahjong lesson in Portland

Beginner Series

Two lessons, played one week apart. You’ll leave ready to play.

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Play

Players around a mahjong table at an Open Play night

Open Play

Tables, tiles, and a host. Bring your card and play with people who get it.

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Compete

Players around a table during a league night

League Play

Competitive games with weekly raffles and a grand prize for the winner.

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Hands reaching across a mahjong table mid-game

Private Lessons for You and Your Friends

You bring the people and we’ll bring the tiles. Classes can be booked for 1–16 players at a location of your choice.

  1. Book 101 and 102 together, a week apart, for less than booking them one at a time.

    1. For when you can't tell a bamboo from a dragon

      • Learn the official NMJL rules
      • Practice The Charleston swap
      • Play your first beginner hands
      • Take home a card and cheat sheet
    2. It all starts to click (literally and figuratively)

      • Review the card and the rules
      • Learn strategy and some defense
      • Build the wall and deal the tiles
      • Play two full games with coaching
  2. Charleston strategy, scoring, and real game practice

    • Score hands and settle up
    • Sharpen your Charleston passes
    • Pick the right hand for your rack
    • Play full games with coaching
  3. For when you’re ready to stop playing nice

    • Spot dead hands and play defense
    • Read exposures and discards
    • Know when to commit or pivot
    • Catch a mahjong called in error
  4. Put it all together and play like a regular

    • Walk through this year’s card
    • Combine strategy and defense
    • Play full games, coaching nearby
    • Bring the questions stumping you
  5. Mahjong for kids, taught at their pace

    • Meet every suit, Wind and Dragon
    • Play simple hands made for kids
    • Practice counting and patterns
    • Play alongside the grownups

Pick a class, a date and a place. We bring the tiles and mats. You bring the chairs.

Word Gets Around

Honest takes, straight from the table.

At first glance Mahjong felt very intimidating because of all the information to grasp, but Beth was so knowledgeable and more than willing to explain things repeatedly.
Jami H.
Beth is informative, patient, and her love of Mahjong shines through her teaching, making learning super fun and easy. Thanks to her I’m now obsessed with Mahjong!
Olivia Z.
These classes made me feel confident playing the game much faster than I ever expected. Beth's passion for the game is contagious, and she creates such a welcoming, supportive environment.
Jess I.
Beth is an excellent teacher and did a great job explaining things in a way that didn't feel overwhelming and made it so fun. Her handouts were beautiful and I can't wait to play again!
Megan N.
Beth Pacyk at a mahjong table

A note from Beth

Hi, I’m Beth Pacyk—Mahjong instructor, avid reader, cursing quilter, and lover of all games. My most treasured memories were made around a game table, sharing stories and laughter.

As your Mahjong instructor, I’m excited to share this captivating game that blends strategy, chance, and connection. Whether you’re drawn to Mahjong’s rich history or the thrill of calling “Mahjong!” I’m here to guide you through this timeless game that brings people together, one tile at a time.

I’m here for pretty tiles, new friends, and making Mahjong feel approachable and fun for everyone.

Affiliate Discounts

The tiles, mats, and gear I actually use and love. Save 10% at my favorite shops with my code.

BIRDBAMBETH

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