Step into the rhythm world of Shawn Pelton, the legendary drummer in the Saturday Night Live house band making musical magic for over 30 years. Having recorded with Bruce Springsteen, Sheryl Crow, Rod Stewart, and countless other music icons, Shawn is one of the most versatile and respected drummers in the industry.

This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity grants you a private, personalized drum lesson with Shawn in New York City, complemented by a bundle of professional-grade gear hand-selected by him — the same equipment trusted by top performers worldwide. Whether you're an aspiring drummer or seasoned player, this is your chance to elevate your skills under the guidance of a true master.

Bidding opens May 6, 2025 at 9:00am PDT and closes May 20, 2025 at 9:00 am PDT.

What's Included

Private Drum Lesson with Shawn Pelton: A rare chance to receive personalized mentorship from one of the industry’s most sought-after drummers. This 90-minute session will be tailored to your skill level and goals, focusing on technique, groove development, and professional insights you won’t find anywhere else.

1-Year Premium Membership to Drum Channel ($199 value): Enjoy unlimited access to hundreds of lessons, masterclasses, and exclusive interviews with the world’s greatest drummers. Perfect for continuing your growth after your session with Shawn!

Vater Gear Bundle ($195 value): Play with the same set of professional-grade Vater drumsticks used by Shawn Pelton. Known for their balance and feel, these sticks will inspire confidence and precision every time you play.

Professional DW Gear Bundle ($365 value): Upgrade your kit with these must-have tools trusted by professional drummers:

DW Black Beauty Cowbell: A studio favorite for its crisp, cutting tone that recording engineers love.
DW Clawhook Clamp with Convertible L Arm: Professional-grade hardware offering rock-solid stability and endless positioning options.
DW City Series Hi-Hat Jingle Ring Double: Add texture and dimension to your hi-hat—just like the pros.
DW 5000 Series Accelerator Single Pedal: Experience smooth action and legendary response trusted by top drummers for decades.

Zildjian K Cluster Crash Cymbal 16” ($340 value): One of Shawn’s go-to favorites, this innovative cymbal delivers a rich, complex tone, featuring unique cluster hammer marks that provide a dynamic attack and exceptional response. Its extra-thin weight and unlathed bell create a wide, expressive spread, making it an ideal choice for rock, metal, fusion, and world music.

Hudson Music Digital Book Bundle (up to $95 value)
Choose six digital drum books from Hudson Music’s extensive catalog. Whether you're sharpening your reading chops, mastering new grooves, or exploring advanced techniques, this collection has something for every drummer. Plus, enjoy rich biographies of some of the most illustrious figures in the drumming world—offering both instruction and inspiration in one place.

Live From My Drum Room Gear + Rod Morgenstein Tool ($135 value)

LFMDR T-Shirt & Hoodie ($75 value): Represent the drumming community with this stylish bundle from the beloved podcast hosted by John DeChristopher.
Rod Morgenstein “Wing Thing” Drummer’s Tool ($60 value): Designed by legendary drummer Rod Morgenstein, this versatile drum key holder/tool helps streamline setup and tear-down. A practical must-have for drummers of all levels.

Please read the Terms and Conditions before participating.

Bidding opens May 6, 2025 at 9:00am PDT and closes May 20, 2025 at 9:00 am PDT.

Why Bid?

This package offers more than $1,000 worth of gear—but the real value is priceless. You’ll gain personalized mentorship from Shawn Pelton, whose decades of experience performing live on television and recording in world-class studios have made him a master of his craft. Walk away with techniques, tips, and inspiration that will forever transform your approach to drumming—plus professional gear that will elevate your setup to new heights.

Your bid supports Future Youth Records’ mission to empower youth artists worldwide to create music that promotes social justice and inspires positive change. This contribution provides them with the tools and opportunities to make a real-world impact on critical issues like women’s rights, global peace, environmental sustainability, and mental health awareness. It also enables us to continue offering free music production services while ensuring that young artists retain 100% of their music rights and creative freedom.

Terms & Conditions

By placing a bid on this auction item, you agree to the following terms:

Charitable Contribution Disclosure
This auction is hosted by Future Youth Records, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Proceeds will directly benefit our programs and mission. Only the amount paid over the fair market value (FMV) of the item may be considered tax-deductible. We recommend consulting your tax advisor for guidance.
Winner Responsibilities

Travel, lodging, and any additional expenses incurred in relation to the lesson are the sole responsibility of the winner.

- The lesson must be scheduled by May 20, 2026.
- The lesson must take place in the New York City area at a mutually agreed-upon time.
- Scheduling is subject to Shawn Pelton’s availability and may change due to professional obligations. The winner must remain flexible in selecting dates.
- The winner agrees to provide photos of themself with the items for promotional use.
- The winner is responsible for ensuring that the shipping address entered at the time of bidding is accurate, as all physical items will be shipped to that address.
Non-Transferable and Non-Refundable
This auction package is non-transferable, non-refundable, and may not be exchanged for cash or credit.
Photo and Media Release
By participating in this experience, the winner agrees that any photos or media taken during the drum lesson may be used by Future Youth Records for promotional and storytelling purposes, unless otherwise requested in writing.
Eligibility
Participants must be 18 years or older, or have written consent from a legal guardian to bid and participate.

Disclaimer
Future Youth Records and Shawn Pelton reserve the right to modify or cancel the experience due to unforeseen circumstances. In the event of cancellation by the artist, a good faith effort will be made to reschedule or provide an alternative of equal value.

Sponsors

Drum Channel
DW Music Foundation
Zildjian
Vater Percussion USA
Hudson Music
Live From My Drum Room with John DeChristopher

A very special thank you to Jamie Eblen and Nightcap Studios in Chelsea, New York.

The Shawn Pelton Drum Lesson Auction

By Future Youth Records

The Shawn Pelton Drum Lesson Auction

Drum Like a Pro with SNL’s Shawn Pelton: Exclusive Lesson & Gear Bundle!