Play mahjong like a magpie: smart, social, stylish & savvy

MAHJONG LESSONS

Mahjong Lessons & Events in St. Louis & Mid-Missouri

  • St. Louis mahjong instructor with mahjong class

    Beginner Mahjong Lessons

    Learn the ins and outs of the delightful and challenging game of American mahjong at one of my Mahjong 101, Mahjong 102, or Guided Play lessons in St. Louis. I teach the National Mah Jongg League rules by the book but also show you modern house rules—yes, blanks!—to add some spice to game night. Join a seat at a public class or host your own private lesson at your home or favorite hangout.

  • Mahjong table set up for a private mah jongg lesson in St. Louis

    Private Lessons & Mahjong Group Support

    Go all in on your new favorite hobby (promise!) with my three-part series of beginner lessons, Gateway to Mahjong, including three private learning sessions for you and your friends. Get support in launching your own mahjong group with beginner lessons and guided play in the comfort of your home—I bring everything we need to learn and play to you!

  • Mahjong events at local St. Louis businesses

    St. Louis Mahjong Open Play

    The best part of mahjong? Connection and community! I host local St. Louis mahjong open play events and private parties to foster new friendships and encourage networking. Nearby in Mid-MO? We’re happy to travel and set up a pop-up in your home or boutique.

Magpie Mahjong - Ali St. Louis Mahjong Instructor

Hi, I’m Ali!

Welcome—I’d love to teach you how to play mahjong! I fell in love with mahjong because of the connection it builds with other women and the fun screen-free mental exercise it delivers. Why “magpie”? My maiden name means “magpie”, and I’ve always identified with those clever, playful birds who love shiny things, puzzles, and friendship. The name took on new meaning when I started to play mahjong—a game named for the birdsong-like twitter of the tiles—and I realized that my favorite qualities of magpies are also my favorite way to play mahjong: smart, social, savvy, and stylish.

  • "Ali is a fantastic mahjong instructor! Knowledgeable, patient, and engaging. She breaks down the rules in a way that’s easy to grasp and makes learning the game a truly enjoyable experience. I can’t recommend her highly enough!"

    -Stacey H., Mahjong 101 & 102

  • "I'm hooked! Ali made learning the basics a breeze in the wind! I can't wait to attend another class."

    -Emily M., Mahjong 101

  • "Ali made it so easy to understand and enjoy. I wanted to continue and explore the game immediately when we finished. It is a great evening learning something new and meeting new people."

    -Jennie U., Mahjong 101 & 102

  • "Ali was an amazing instructor for our group of first time players! She made it fun and engaging while explaining some of the history of the game, which I appreciated. I highly recommend booking Ali for a lesson!"

    -Julie S., Mahjong 101

  • "Ali is a delightful teacher! She has a great step-by-step presentation prepared and she is very kind, patient and most of all—fun to be with!"

    -Jane J., Gateway to Mahjong Series

  • "Our group was almost totally beginners and she had us playing in no time. Everyone agreed that it was a great experience. I would not hesitate to hire Ali again."

    -Lindsay P., Private Mahjong 101