New to the tiles or already hooked? Come learn the game, sharpen your
skills, meet fellow players, or join in the fun — there's a seat at the table for
everyone.
You're on the list! We can't wait to play with you! ♥
Meet the Birds
About Us
From court partners to friends to business partners!
Joyce and Susie first met on the racquet courts and
quickly became close friends. Before co-founding 2 BAM BIRDS, Susie spent many years in the
finance industry, managing investments—and teams of analysts—at some of New York
City's leading hedge funds. Joyce built her career at Bloomberg in Training & Development,
so teaching and helping others learn has long been part of what she does best.
Their professional backgrounds, competitive spirits,
and shared love of American Mahjong made the perfect combination for 2 BAM BIRDS.
When it comes to teaching mahjong, they take their
instruction seriously. Susie is a Certified & Accredited American Mahjong Instructor, and
Joyce is currently completing her certification and accreditation. Together, they bring a
knowledgeable, hands-on, and approachable teaching style designed to make learning the game
easy, engaging, and fun.
And while they may take the game seriously, they definitely don't take
themselves too seriously! When they're not teaching or playing mahjong, you'll usually find them
with a racquet in their hands and a hat on their heads!
Everything you need to know about lessons, events, and playing with us. Still have a question? Email us at 2BAMbirds@gmail.com.
Getting Started
What is American Mahjong?
American Mahjong is a fun, social, and strategic tile game played by four players. It combines skill, pattern recognition, and a little luck. While it may seem overwhelming at first, our step-by-step lessons make it easy and enjoyable to learn.
Do I need any experience?
Not at all! Most of our students have never played before. We specialize in teaching complete beginners.
Is Mahjong difficult to learn?
Like learning pickleball, bridge, or golf, there is a learning curve — but with the right instruction, most students are surprised by how quickly they begin playing and having fun.
What does "Mah Jongg" mean?
The name is commonly translated as "sparrow" or "the game of sparrows," inspired by the clicking sound the tiles make during play.
Why are there different spellings?
You'll see the game written as Mahjong, Mah Jongg, and Mah-Jongg. They all refer to the same game, although "Mah Jongg" is the spelling traditionally used by the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL).
Lessons
What is the difference between your Beginner Lesson Series and the Essentials Package?
Our Group Lesson Series is our most comprehensive program and covers gameplay, strategy, etiquette, and everything you need to confidently join a game. Our Essentials Package is a shorter program designed to teach the fundamentals of the game. It focuses on the mechanics of playing but does not include advanced strategy or gameplay concepts.
How many people are in a lesson?
Our standard group lessons are designed for four players. If you have fewer than four players, we'd still love to teach you — pricing is adjusted accordingly.
Can I sign up by myself?
Absolutely! Join our waitlist and we'll do our best to match you with other players looking to learn.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes! We offer private and semi-private lessons for individuals, couples, and small groups.
Where are lessons held?
We teach at clubs, community centers, businesses, and private homes throughout northern New Jersey. We can also travel to your location for private events and lessons.
Do I need to own a Mahjong set?
No! We provide everything you need for your lesson, including tiles, racks, mats, and instructional materials.
Which Mahjong rules do you teach?
We teach American Mahjong using the current National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) rules and card.
What if I already know how to play but want to improve?
Our Instructional Play sessions are perfect for players who know the basics but want to improve strategy, confidence, and decision-making while receiving guidance from one of our instructors.
Can we book recurring weekly games or lessons?
Absolutely! Many of our students schedule recurring weekly lessons or instructor-led games to continue building their skills. Visit our Lessons page to learn more and book a recurring session.
Events
What happens at an Intro to Mahjong event?
Our Intro sessions are fun, relaxed introductions to the game. You'll learn a brief history of Mahjong, the basic rules, and watch a demonstration so you can experience how the game is played.
What is an Instructional Play session?
Instructional Play is designed for players who know the basics and want guided practice. An instructor is available throughout the game to answer questions, explain strategy, and help build confidence.
Do you host private events?
Yes! We host events for country clubs, corporate team-building events, birthday parties, girls' nights, community organizations, fundraisers, schools, and adult education programs.
Can you come to our club, business, or home?
Absolutely! We bring everything needed to host a fun and successful Mahjong experience.
Registration & Payment
How do I reserve my spot?
Registration is confirmed once payment is received. Your confirmation email confirms your payment and secures your spot.
What payment methods do you accept?
Accepted payment methods are provided during the registration process and currently include Zelle and Venmo. Stripe coming shortly.
What happens if an event sells out?
Join our waitlist! We'll notify you if a spot becomes available or when another event is added.
Cancellations
What is your cancellation policy?
Because class sizes are limited, cancellations may not always be refundable. Please email us at 2BAMbirds@gmail.com and we will work with you to find a resolution.
Can I transfer my registration?
In many cases, yes. Please contact us as early as possible, and we'll do our best to accommodate your request.
Shopping
Do you sell Mahjong merchandise?
Coming soon! We're excited to launch a collection of 2 BAM BIRDS merchandise and Mahjong accessories. Be sure to check back soon, and visit our Shop page for the latest products and updates.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes! Mahjong lessons and events make wonderful gifts for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions. Email us at 2BAMbirds@gmail.com if interested.
About 2 BAM BIRDS
Why choose 2 BAM BIRDS?
We believe learning Mahjong should be fun, welcoming, and social. Whether you're looking to challenge your mind, meet new friends, or simply try something new, we create engaging experiences that leave students excited to play again.
Who are your instructors?
2 BAM BIRDS was founded by Joyce O'Brien and Susie Keel, two friends with a passion for teaching, community, and sharing their love of American Mahjong.
Can men play too?
Absolutely! Mahjong is for everyone. We teach individuals, couples, families, friends, and organizations of all backgrounds and experience levels.
What age is appropriate to learn Mahjong?
Mahjong is a game for all ages! While most of our lessons are geared toward adults, we also offer programs designed specifically for children and families.
Do I need to bring anything?
Just bring yourself! We provide all the equipment you'll need. If you already own a Mahjong set or NMJL card, you're welcome to bring them.
Do you travel outside northern New Jersey?
Yes! We regularly travel throughout northern New Jersey and may be available for events beyond the area. Contact us to discuss your location.
Can you help us start a Mahjong group at our club or neighborhood?
Absolutely! We'd love to help you build a thriving Mahjong community. We can provide introductory events, lessons, instructional play, and ongoing support to get your group up and running.
Still have questions? We'd love to hear from you — email us anytime at
2BAMbirds@gmail.com.
Pick a lesson type to check out right away, or head to Events for socials and hosting inquiries.
Want the full details on lessons first? See full pricing →
Lessons available at your home, club, or designated location. Daytime and evening
sessions available. Group sizes and scheduling subject to availability.
🦚
Group Lessons
3-8 players
Perfect for friends, neighbors, clubs, and social groups.
$50*
per person, per 2-hour session
4-session series required
Includes:
Mahjong fundamentals
Tile identification & Charleston strategy
Reading the card
Hand selection and game strategy
Guided practice play
Total cost: $200* per person for the complete 4-session series
Learn more
Whether you're learning American Mahjong for the first time or looking to sharpen your strategy, our private group lessons provide personalized instruction in a fun, relaxed environment. Designed for groups of friends, family, clubs, or coworkers, each lesson is tailored to your group's experience level and goals.
Beginners will build a strong foundation by learning tile identification, reading the NMJL card, Charleston strategy, gameplay, etiquette, and winning fundamentals. More experienced players can focus on advanced strategy, defensive play, hand selection, pivoting, and improving overall decision-making.
Private lessons offer the flexibility to learn at your own pace while enjoying a social experience with people you know. We provide all game materials — just bring your group and your enthusiasm to learn. It's the perfect option for anyone who wants a customized, interactive Mahjong experience.
Total cost: $160* per person for the complete 2-session program
Does not include advanced strategy / tactics or shadow / companion play.
Learn more
New to American Mahjong but don't have the time to commit to 4 sessions? Our Mahjong Essentials Package is the perfect place to start.
This structured beginner program is designed to teach the core fundamentals needed to begin playing with confidence. You'll learn tile identification, how to read the NMJL card, the setup of the game, the Charleston, basic gameplay, calling tiles, using jokers, etiquette, scoring, and the mechanics of completing a legal hand.
Our focus is on building a strong foundation through clear instruction and hands-on practice in a fun, supportive environment. By the end of the program, you'll understand how the game works and feel comfortable joining beginner games.
The Essentials Package is intentionally focused on the fundamentals. Advanced strategy, defensive play, hand selection, pivoting, and higher-level decision-making are covered in our Private Group Lessons and Instructional Play Sessions, allowing you to continue developing your skills as your confidence grows.
No prior Mahjong experience is required, and all game materials are provided.
Already know the basics and want guided practice with an instructor as your 4th?
Inquire Below
Must have min. 3 players
Includes:
Instructional play as needed
Strategy tips and coaching
Rules clarification
Hand selection guidance
Practice more. Improve faster. Have fun!
Learn more
Already know the basics but want more table time with expert guidance? Our Instructional Play Sessions bridge the gap between lessons and independent play.
These sessions are designed for players who understand the fundamentals but want to build confidence through real games. An instructor circulates throughout play, answering questions, offering strategic suggestions, correcting mistakes, and explaining key decisions as they happen.
Rather than stopping the game for lengthy instruction, coaching is provided naturally throughout play so you continue developing your skills while enjoying a fun, social atmosphere. It's one of the fastest ways to improve your confidence, decision-making, and overall game.
Perfect for graduates of beginner lessons or anyone looking to become a stronger, more consistent Mahjong player.
Please enter a valid number of players for this package.
Confirm & book
Please fill in all required fields.
Find a Sub ●
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You'll need to become a sub first (agree to be contacted, and add your info)
before you can request one — that keeps the list a two-way street.
Become a Sub ●
You will be contacted by subs@2bambirds.com based on the criteria entered
below. Keep an eye on your inbox so you don't miss playing opps!
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Thanks for becoming a sub. We'll reach out any time a group nearby needs an extra player.
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interested players that contains YOUR contact and game INFO only. The sub can
choose whether to reply back or not.
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