What does a drum lesson cost?

Single 30-minute lessons start at $50. 60-minute packages run up to $180. Multi-lesson packages come with a discount. The first lesson is always free for new students, so trying it out costs nothing.

How long is a typical drum lesson?

Lessons run 30, 45, 60, 90, or 120 minutes. Most students settle into a 30 or 60 minute weekly schedule. The first lesson is 30 minutes and free.

How does scheduling and cancellation work?

Lessons can be weekly, biweekly, or as needed. Cancellations work best with 24 hours notice so the time slot can be filled. Emergency cancellations are handled case by case.

How do I book my first drum lesson?

Go to rudyfeinauer.com/book-online, pick a date and time, and I will confirm. The first lesson is free for new students, so there is no payment step. If you prefer, call 914-262-9406.

How young can a student start drum lessons?

Most students start between ages 7 and 10. I have also taught younger kids and adult beginners in their 60s and 70s. The right age depends on attention span and interest, not the birthday.

Do you teach adult beginners?

Yes. Adult beginners in their 60s and 70s have taken lessons with me and progressed faster than they expected. Adult learners bring focus and life experience that helps. The first lesson is free.

Where is Rudy Feinauer based?

My studio is in Ardsley, NY (Westchester County). In person lessons happen at the studio. Virtual lessons reach students across the United States and worldwide via Zoom or FaceTime.

What equipment do I need to start drum lessons?

For the very first lessons, a practice pad and a pair of sticks is enough. Many students start that way and add a full kit later. If you already have a kit, that is even better.

Are virtual drum lessons as effective as in person?

After five years and many students, the short answer is yes when the setup is right: a good camera angle, reliable internet, and a student who is ready to learn. Some students actually progress faster because they are on their own kit in their own room.

What software do I need for virtual drum lessons?

Zoom or FaceTime. Most people already have one or both. No special software, no separate purchases. A laptop, tablet, or phone is enough.

What are Rudy Feinauer's credentials?

I am a graduate of the New England Conservatory, Jazz Percussion, Class of 1990, on full scholarship. I have been teaching drums privately for over 35 years and was a NYSSMA adjudicator for several years.

What styles of drumming does Rudy teach?

Jazz, rock, Latin, and contemporary drumming. I draw from over 35 years performing and teaching across genres. Students who want to specialize in one style get more time on that style. Students who want variety get a broader curriculum.

What if drum lessons are not a fit?

The first lesson is free, so it costs nothing to find out. If after that first lesson you decide drumming is not for you, or that we are not the right teacher-student match, no hard feelings. You keep what you learned and you are not on the hook for anything.

Where in Westchester does Rudy teach in person?

The studio is in Ardsley, NY. Students travel in from Hastings-on-Hudson, Dobbs Ferry, Irvington, Tarrytown, Sleepy Hollow, Yonkers, Bronxville, and other nearby Westchester towns. Virtual lessons are also available if traveling is not convenient.

About Rudy Feinauer

Rudy Feinauer
Jun 18
2 min read

Updated: 6 days ago

A consolidated look at where Rudy has been featured, what his formal credentials are, and what his students have said over a 30+ year teaching career.

Education

Graduated from the New England Conservatory of Music in jazz percussion, Class of 1990, on full scholarship. Publicly verifiable through the NEC Alumni Network's Small Business Directory at https://alumni.necmusic.edu/page/small-business-directory, which officially recognizes Rudy Feinauer Drum Lessons under Lessons and Training.

30 years of teaching

Has been teaching drums and percussion privately since the early 1990s. Students have continued on to programs at Berklee College of Music, the Manhattan School of Music, and the New England Conservatory.

NYSSMA and audition coaching

Has prepared students for NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) auditions every year for 30 years. Was also a NYSSMA adjudicator for several years, which means he served on the scoring side of student evaluations. In every one of those 30 years, has had students accepted into county or state ensembles.

Press appearances

New England Conservatory Alumni Small Business Directory, official NEC listing under Lessons and Training, June 2026. The Working Musician interview, at theworkingmusician.com/reviews/RudyFeinauerInterview.html. FOX 5 New York, Good Day New York segment, January 23, 2013.

Performance career

More than 30 years of performing alongside teaching. Selected venues, in no particular order:

The Stone Pony · Asbury Park, NJ
BB King's Blues Club · New York, NY
Colonial Theatre · Phoenixville, PA
Kensico Dam Plaza 9/11 Memorial · Valhalla, NY
Local jazz and community venues across Westchester, NY and the tri-state area

Upcoming performance

Proof the performance career is still active. Free and open to the public.

When · Sunday, July 19, 2026, 3:00 to 5:00 pm
Who · Rudy Feinauer with Mudsole (Dixieland trio)
Where · Thomas Paine Memorial Building, New Rochelle, NY
Event
New Rochelle Jazz Festival · "Jazz in July," July 10 to 19, 2026
Admission · Free

See full past appearances and press coverage for the complete show history.

Student feedback

5.0 star average on Google with 27 public reviews. From one student review: "My lessons with him have been amazing patient, encouraging, and tailored to my goals. I've improved my timing and fills a ton. Highly recommend for anyone in Westchester looking to learn drums!" by Kai Koku.

Book a free first lesson

The first lesson with Rudy is always free for new students. No payment required to book a trial. Visit rudyfeinauer.com/book-online or call 914-262-9406.