Modern Drummer Magazine Feature: A Deep Dive into DrumMantra

I recently had the privilege of presenting at the Chicago Drum Show—a powerful, immersive masterclass that brought together everything DrumMantra stands for: deep practice, rhythmic insight, mental focus, and musical connection.

Modern Drummer Magazine was in the room, and I’m honored by what writer Bob Campbell had to say:

“Chicago-based drummer, educator, and author Rich Stitzel brought a deep and thought-provoking energy to the clinic stage, showcasing his globally acclaimed educational system, DrumMantra—a program that has transformed the practice routines of hundreds of drummers in over 40 countries.”

I’m grateful for the recognition, but even more excited about what this article represents:
A chance to go deeper.

Breaking Down the DrumMantra Experience

“Armed with a lovely vintage (1967) 4-piece Yamaha drum kit, companion slideshow, and a scannable QR code granting access to a 65-page guide, Rich delivered far more than a clinic—it was a full-on drumming master class.”

DrumMantra isn’t a bag of tricks.
It’s not a warmup routine.
It’s a system. A philosophy.
A way of thinking about drumming that integrates technique, creativity, and mindfulness.

And yes, it’s a system I’ve had the honor of developing while endorsed by companies I deeply respect and believe in:
Yamaha Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks, Evans Drumheads, Low Boy Beaters, Prologix Pads, and Humes & Berg Cases.

Every product I use is a piece of the larger picture—tools that support the kind of intentional, focused practice I teach through DrumMantra.

The Six Key Elements

“Centering his presentation around Six Key Elements—timing, reading, coordination, polymeters, phrasing, and groove—Rich broke down structured practice at its core.”

These are the Six Key Elements of the DrumMantra Practice System:

• Time – Precision, subdivision mastery, and unshakable internal pulse

• Reading – Rhythmic fluency on the page and in performance

• Coordination – Four-limb freedom and full-body integration

• Polymetric Awareness – Rhythmic perception from multiple vantage points

• Phrasing – Creative expression, shape, and dynamic language

• Groove – Energy, feel, and musical embodiment

Most drummers focus on one or two of these areas—usually time or groove—and leave the others underdeveloped.
DrumMantra is designed to cross-train all six simultaneously, allowing you to become a complete, confident, and creative musician.

Rhythm as Perception

“He emphasized the power of subdivisions, explored the difference between polyrhythms and polymeters, and offered this clarity:
‘Polyrhythms are different groupings of notes with different subdivisions that resolve at the same time, and polymeters are different groupings of notes with the same subdivision that resolve at different times—polymeters allow for rhythmic perception, or viewing rhythmic structures from various vantage points.’”

This right here is one of the core distinctions that most drummers gloss over.
Polymetric awareness changes how you perceive rhythm—it literally gives you more ways to feel time, which is essential for confidence, control, and creative expression.

When you understand rhythmic layers, you stop guessing.
You start hearing time in three dimensions.

Training the Mind, Not Just the Hands

“With a focus on repetition, breath control, and mental clarity, Rich encouraged players to train their minds as much as their hands. He shared precise, practical exercises to fine-tune internal timing and elevate coordination, making it clear that musical growth requires intention, structure, and discipline.”

This is why DrumMantra feels different.
It’s not about chops or speed.
It’s about presence.
Clarity.
Intentional progress.

When you train this way, you don't just play better—you become more centered, more confident, and more connected to the music and the moment.

A Glimpse Into What’s Possible

“The session served as just a glimpse into DrumMantra’s depth. For many in the room, it was a powerful call to change—to adopt a smarter, more musical approach to becoming the best version of themselves behind the kit.”

If you were there, you felt it.
If you’ve been stuck in your drumming, wondering what to do next, this might be your moment.

Want to Go Deeper? Watch the Free Drumset Mastery Webinar

The Drumset Mastery Webinar is a full 1-hour immersive training that goes far beyond what I could cover in a single clinic.
You’ll learn:

✅ Why most drummers plateau—and how to break through
✅ How to rewire your brain for consistency, confidence, and creativity
✅ A proven daily routine that works—even if you’re busy or burnt out
✅ The science and structure behind the Six Key Elements
✅ Real stories of transformation from students around the world

🎯 Click here to watch it now → Drumset Mastery Webinar 

If you’re here, you already know:
Drumming isn’t just something you do.
It’s part of who you are.

The question is—how deep are you willing to go?

Let’s find out.

In rhythm,
Rich Stitzel
Creator of DrumMantra
Yamaha • Sabian • Vic Firth • Evans • Low Boy • Prologix • Humes & Berg

#drummantra #godeeperwithyourpractice #drumsetmastery