Alice and Dorothy had played bridge at several clubs before landing at JCC Manhattan three years ago, where they play bridge with Peter Steinberg, one of America’s most popular bridge instructors. While they were looking for a game in which they could participate regularly, they have continued in Peter’s class because they have not only improved their game, but had fun while doing it as well. “He provides an atmosphere to make bridge fun at any level,” says Dorothy of Peter’s teaching style and sense of humor.
Peter offers his corrections in a supportive and relaxed environment. “He’s controlling,” Alice says with a grin. “He won’t let us play a hand until he’s approved it, which makes for a much more exciting way to play the game.” When she plays outside of class, Peter’s kind, insistent lessons stay with her. “I have him in my head,” she says. “I believe in him as a teacher.”
Alice is a social worker, and Dorothy is a psychologist. They agree that bridge helps keep them sharp, as concentration, memory, planning ahead, and strategizing are all essential to the game. Peter knows his audience well and accommodates their learning levels and needs accordingly, taking care to pass out handwritten notes of instruction to his class participants. His class isn’t about winning or losing—in fact, they don’t even have to keep score. For Peter, it’s about all his students and the friendly community he has created for them.
Want to join the fun? Join Peter for a free beginner session on Wed, Feb 17, at 1:30 p.m. at JCC Manhattan (Amsterdam Avenue at 76th Street) before signing up for the eight-session class. Register here or call 646.505.5708.
