DrumMantraβ’ Β· The Drumset Mastery Program
DrumMantraβ’ Β· Drumset Mastery Program
Strategy Session
Preparation Guide
Things To Do To Be Fully Prepared For Your DrumSet Mastery Zoom Call.
π Mark Your Calendar!
Your exact call time, location, and details have been sent to your email β be sure to check for it and set a reminder.
π₯ Watch These Videos Before Our Call
To get the most out of our conversation, it's important that you watch the webinar before our call. This will give you key insights into the program so we can dive straight into what matters most β your goals and how we can help.
π Please Read Everything
Taking the time to review these materials will ensure you're fully prepared, making our discussion more valuable and focused.
We want you to get the most out of this experience!
Watch the full webinar below before your Zoom call. This is required preparation β it gives you the foundation we'll build on together so we can focus entirely on your goals during the session.
The Drumset Mastery Program is a structured, results-driven training designed for drummers who want to develop complete control over their playing. Built around the Six Key Elements of the DrumMantra Practice System β Time, Reading, Coordination, Polymeters, Phrasing, and Groove β this program strengthens the fundamental skills that define great drummers.
Training these elements together in a progressive, intentional system will build a solid foundation, improve consistency, and develop a deeper understanding of rhythm and musicality.
This program isn't about quick fixes or flashy tricks β it's about rewiring how you practice and approach drumming. Every exercise is designed to challenge you, reinforcing skills that improve technique, focus, patience, and awareness.
The Drumset Mastery Program eliminates guesswork and provides a proven system to help you break through plateaus and refine your playing. Each lesson builds on the last, ensuring steady, lasting improvement.
This program is for serious drummers ready to commit, stay consistent, and train with intention. If you're looking for a structured approach to improve your playing and reach your full potential, the Drumset Mastery Program is the next step.
Rich Stitzel is an American drummer, educator, author, and clinician known for his expertise in advanced rhythmic concepts and structured practice methods. He is the founder of the DrumMantra Practice System and the Drumset Mastery Program, both designed to help drummers develop a deeper understanding of drumming by integrating time, reading, coordination, polymetric awareness, phrasing, and groove into their practice. As a member of the Percussive Arts Society's Drumset Committee, he contributes to the advancement of drumset education worldwide.
A highly sought-after live and session drummer, Stitzel has performed across the United States in venues ranging from clubs to theaters to arenas, working with artists across multiple genres. His Drumset Mastery Program, a year-long intensive training course, has been embraced by drummers in over 40 countries.
Stitzel is the author of six books, three of which debuted at #1 on Amazon, focusing on rhythmic development and structured practice. He also hosts the award-winning DrumMantra Podcast.
Rich endorses Yamaha, Sabian, Vic Firth, Evans, Prologix, Humes & Berg, Low Boy, and Polynome.
Rich has been featured on: Drumeo Gab Podcast Β· Modern Drummer Podcast Β· DrumMantra Podcast Β· Drum Brigade Podcast Β· Drumless El Podcast
Get the most out of your session by completing each step below.
Mandatory β Watch the Webinar
To get the most from the Zoom call, you must watch the entire Replay before joining.
Be in a Quiet, Distraction-Free Space
Find a calm environment where you can focus without interruptions.
Laptop or Desktop is Best
A bigger screen makes it easier to engage in the conversation and take notes. If using mobile, set your audio to "Use Original Sound."
Bring a Notebook & Pen
Jot down key points, questions, and action steps during the call.
Have Your Drumset Nearby
If you didn't submit a link to your videos, you may be asked to play so we can hear where you are.
Bring Decision Makers
If we decide to work more closely together, any decision makers must be on the call to understand the importance of your drumming growth.
Test Your Zoom Setup
Download the free Zoom app and check your internet connection, camera, and mic to avoid last-minute tech issues.
Be Open and Ready to Share
Think about your musical goals, struggles, and what you're hoping to gain from the program.
"What Could This Mean for Me?"
This call is an opportunity to determine whether the Drumset Mastery Program is the right fit for you and your goals. This is not an open enrollment course β you must be accepted into the program. If we believe we can support your growth and that you're a good fit, we'll walk you through exactly how the program can help based on your unique situation.
From there, you can decide if you'd like to take the next step.
Whether or not you're accepted into the program will be determined on the call after we ask you some deeper questions about your goals, commitment, and approach to practice. To get the most out of our conversation, we strongly encourage you to review the overview videos, student testimonials, and FAQs beforehand.
Taking the time to go through these materials will give you a strong foundation and make our conversation even more valuable. This program requires dedication, focus, and a willingness to push beyond your limits. If you're truly ready to commit to a higher level of playing and personal growth, this call is the first step toward that transformation.
The Six Key System is a structured and intentional approach to drumming that develops true mastery through focused repetition, mental clarity, and precision-based training. Built around six key elements β Time, Reading, Coordination, Polymeters, Phrasing, and Groove β this system trains drummers to go beyond surface-level playing and build deep control, awareness, and musical understanding.
Unlike conventional practice methods that focus on isolated skills, DrumMantra integrates multiple elements at once, reinforcing rhythmic accuracy, independence, and a stronger mind-body connection.
Each exercise develops patience, focus, and the ability to stay present in the moment β skills that extend far beyond drumming. It's not just about playing better; it's about transforming the way you think, practice, and perform.
Time
Build an internal clock so solid and unshakable that time becomes your most powerful instrument β not something you fight against.
Reading
See a chart, hear it in your head instantly, and execute it with precision the first time. Interpret music with total clarity and confidence.
Coordination
Free every limb from conscious thought so your creativity can finally lead. Each hand and foot serves the music with pure intention.
Polymetric Awareness
Unlock deeper rhythmic perception and expand your phrasing vocabulary in ways that separate good drummers from great ones.
Phrasing
Let creativity flow from true musical expression β not just pattern recall. Say something real every time you sit behind the kit.
Groove
Lead the band from the pocket, effortlessly. Make the musicians around you play better just by being in the room with you.
The System That Took Rich There
Can Take You Further.
No! The program is designed to meet you where you are while challenging you to grow. Whether you're looking to refine your fundamentals or push into high-level mastery, the structured system ensures continuous progress.
Yes! Rich leads the training and provides direct guidance throughout the program. His experience and insight will help you navigate challenges, refine your playing, and develop a deeper understanding of the DrumMantra Practice System.
The Drumset Mastery Program is a structured training and mentorship experience. You'll work through a carefully designed system of exercises and concepts, with guided materials to reinforce your progress. Beyond the structured curriculum, weekly coaching calls provide real-time feedback, support, and strategy adjustments based on your specific needs. The program is not just about what to practice, but how to practice effectively and with purpose.
Yes! You'll have opportunities to receive feedback on your playing through coaching calls, where you can ask questions and get guidance. You can also share your progress within the program for additional insights and support.
Absolutely. The coaching calls provide direct access to Rich, where he helps students refine their approach, troubleshoot challenges, and ensure they're applying the material correctly. The structured nature of the program keeps you on track while allowing for personalized adjustments based on your progress.
Yes, all coaching calls are recorded and made available for reference. Calls take place twice a week, ensuring that every student gets the support they need. If you can't attend live, you can review past sessions at your convenience.
The program includes a structured curriculum with guided exercises, play-along tracks, and detailed explanations. You'll receive materials that allow you to integrate the DrumMantra Practice System into your routine, ensuring consistent growth in Time, Reading, Coordination, Polymeters, Phrasing, and Groove.
Students gain access to the program for a full year. Many achieve such significant breakthroughs during this time that they choose to renew their membership and continue advancing their skills at an even higher level.
On average, there are about 20β25 members on each call, and typically only a few have specific questions. We take as much time as needed to ensure every question is answered. If the calls ever become too crowded, we will pause new enrollments and start a waitlist to maintain the highest level of support.
The Drumset Mastery Program is designed as a year-long training, but the pace at which you progress depends on your commitment, focus, and consistency. Some concepts will challenge you deeply, while others will integrate quickly. Mastery is an ongoing journey, and your growth will reflect the effort you put into the process.
First and foremost, this is not just a course β it's a high-level training and mentorship program. You're not left to figure things out on your own β you'll be guided through The Six Key Elements of the DrumMantra Practice System in a way that ensures long-term progress. Unlike other programs that focus on isolated exercises or surface-level techniques, this system is designed to rewire how you approach practice, performance, and mastery itself.
No, the content is not dripped out. As a premium program, you receive full access to all training materials from day one. This allows you to move at your own pace while still following the structured progression designed for long-term growth.
This program is designed for individual drummers, but if you have a bandmate, student, or assistant who would benefit from the training alongside you, let us know and we'll discuss the best way to accommodate them.
The program combines both structured and adaptive training methods, ensuring that you develop mastery in the most effective way possible. The goal is to build a foundation that allows you to train smarter, not just harder.
Absolutely. The Drumset Mastery Program isn't just about practice β it's about refining and elevating every aspect of your playing. The structured system helps you identify weaknesses, break through limitations, and optimize your progress regardless of where you're starting from.
No, the Drumset Mastery Program is designed to develop the core skills that apply to any style of drumming. The Six Key Elements β Time, Reading, Coordination, Polymeters, Phrasing, and Groove β are the foundation of musical excellence, no matter what genre you play.
Yes! The program is designed to remove guesswork and provide a clear, structured system. You'll receive detailed guidance on what to practice, how to practice, and how to make the most of your time. The coaching calls also provide direct feedback to ensure you're applying the material correctly and efficiently.
The only way to determine if this program is the right fit for you β and if you're the right fit for this program β is to book a call with us. We take your growth seriously and will only invite you into the program if we are confident that you'll see real, measurable progress. This is not an open-enrollment course β it's a structured training program designed for drummers who are committed to long-term improvement.
What Students Are Saying
I've been doing the DrumMantra Online course for a couple of months now. It's the drum school I always wanted to do but was too busy touring and making a living playing drums. Rich Stitzel is the real thing β great drummer, teacher, and all-around swell human. In just a couple of months my reading, technique, and independent coordination have improved significantly.
Bryan H.
Drummer β REO Speedwagon Β· Cher Β· Graham Nash Β· Wang Chung Β· Spencer Davis Group
I'm realizing my worth as a musician. I got a lot of praise for my skills as a drummer β but more importantly, I now know I'm ready to play with higher-level musicians. Knowing that feels fantastic.
Nickolas W.
DrumMantra Student
I'm inspired, not overwhelmed. DrumMantra points out my weaknesses so they can be addressed. I'm already improving in just one week. Work the system, because the system works.
Robert T.
DrumMantra Student
After 6 months, there is no doubt I am a different drummer. It was actually magic β I thought I had felt the pocket before. I was wrong.
Gary B.
DrumMantra Student
I started to trust my playing. There was some form of deep emotional catharsis. Your work is illuminating those weak points and helping me improve very fast.
Greg F.
DrumMantra Student
Everyone said my drumming has significantly improved! THANK YOU TO DRUM MANTRA, Rich Stitzel, and all my classmates!
Raymond D.
DrumMantra Student Β· After Record Release Show
I really love to work with Rich's DrumMantra Practice System. It's structured and challenging but it will pay off! Each month I get a new musical task and can discuss it with drummers all over the world.
Lukas
Professional Drummer, Switzerland
These systems are not shortcuts. It takes a lot of work and focus, but it's worth it once you feel and experience the results. My relationship with time and groove has improved dramatically.
Austin
Professional Drummer, Chicago, IL
Rich, I was so proud of myself. I drove every song. With only 2 private lessons, the live practice sessions, and all the wisdom you've shared β it's a whole new drumming dimension for EDDIE!
Eddie
Drummer, Retired Pipe Fitter, Indiana
Rich's Drummantra material will get you accustomed and comfortable with diverse concepts before challenging you with it. Each month has its own challenge and the Community will inspire you.
CharlΓ©lie
Drummer, La Rochelle, France
Rich is the real deal. A seasoned professional working drummer with the heart of a teacher. Playful, deeply philosophical, and a great person to hang with.
Matt
Pro Drummer, Honolulu, HI
My brain is already starting to see things from a whole new perspective. I can get through an exercise and not be uptight and a nervous wreck. Relaxation coming slowly β and that's the real win.
Chris L.
DrumMantra Student
Rich has created educational material to develop the essential skills every drummer needs to grow and excel, regardless of their background.
Brad S.
Chicago Drum Show Clinic Attendee
While I've been playing for a long time, I didn't have a structured approach for improvement. This has been an amazing program for me. Highly recommended.
Randy K.
DrumMantra Student
I was super impressed with myself that I was able to read and play Rush's Tom Sawyer in real time. I've learned and upped my game so much already.
Michael H.
DrumMantra Student
Your method combined with your focus on mindset and muscle usage is great. Rich is the real thing. I am really enjoying the discussions in our class!
Liz B.
DrumMantra Student
I've received more formal training in Rich's lessons in the past week than in 30 years. It's as if the drum gods reached down and said "We've been watching you long enough. Let us show you something."
Andre E.
DrumMantra Student
It's been the best month of practice I've had in my life. My strokes are so much more confident, precise, and clean. I really can't wait to see where this takes me in a year.
Gary B.
DrumMantra Student
This week I got 118 followers and almost 1,000 streams of my original jazz fusion music across 40 countries. It shows what can happen with consistent work toward your goals.
Evan F.
DrumMantra Student Β· Jazz Fusion Artist
I really enjoyed the Intensive class. This class surfaced a lot of reminders of specific details I need to work on. The DrumMantra library alone will ensure you a lifetime of learning.
D. Brown
Intensive Participant
"Winning is the light switch coming on when you realize that exercise you've been struggling with for a month was never that hard.
It was just a skill you hadn't learned yet."
β Robert Thurston, DrumMantra Student
Before Your Scheduled Appointment!
The Drumset Mastery Club by DrumMantra is a private community where students connect, share progress, ask questions, and support each other on the path to mastery. Join before your call to get a feel for the community and come prepared with even more insight.
"Looking Forward to Meeting You!"
Rich Stitzel
