Rich Stitzel
Drummer, Percussionist, Educator, Author, Composer
Rich Stitzel
Rich Stitzel is an American drummer, educator, author, and clinician known for his work in advanced rhythmic concepts, structured practice methods, and drumset education. He is the founder of the DrumMantra Practice System and the Drumset Mastery Program, both of which emphasize the integration of time, reading, coordination, polymetric awareness, phrasing, and groove to help drummers develop a deeper understanding of drumming.
Stitzel has performed across the United States in venues ranging from clubs and theaters to arenas and has worked as a top-call live and session drummer across multiple genres. In addition to his performance career, he is a dedicated educator who has presented clinics and masterclasses at universities, drum shops, and music schools around the country. He is also a member of the Percussive Arts Society's Drumset Committee, contributing to the advancement of drumset education and performance.
Career
Performance and Session Work
Stitzel has built a versatile career as a session drummer and live performer, working with a wide range of artists across multiple genres. His ability to adapt to different musical styles, combined with his deep understanding of groove, has made him a sought-after musician in both live and studio settings.
DrumMantra and Drumset Mastery
As an educator, Stitzel is the creator of the DrumMantra Practice System, a structured method that cross-trains multiple aspects of drumming to develop precision, control, and musical awareness. His Drumset Mastery Program is a year-long intensive course designed to help drummers refine their technique, improve rhythmic fluency, and cultivate disciplined, intentional practice. His methodologies have been embraced by drummers worldwide, with his courses used by hundreds of drummers in over 40 countries.
Authorship and Podcasting
Stitzel is the author of six books, three of which debuted at #1 on Amazon in their respective categories. His writings focus on rhythmic development, coordination, and structured practice. He is also the host of the award-winning DrumMantra Podcast, where he explores advanced drumming concepts, interviews industry professionals, and provides insights into the art of practice and performance.
Endorsements
Rich Stitzel is an artist and endorser for several leading drum and percussion brands, including Yamaha, Sabian, Vic Firth, Evans, Prologix, Humes & Berg, Low Boy, and Polynome. His clinics and educational programs are fully supported by these brands.
External Links
- Official Website: drummantra.com/rich-stitzel
- Drumset Mastery Program: drummantra.com/drumsetmastery-webinar
As an Author
I have published six books. Three of which debuted at #1 on Amazon!
The first book is called “​The Foundational Series​”, which is a method for guiding drummers through a series of exercises intended to strengthen coordination, rhythm awareness, concentration, timing, phrasing, and creative expression. This book is a must for any serious student who is ready to go deeper with their practice.
The second book is called "​The Primary Series​" and picks up where the Foundational Series ends. The Primary Series is all about the 3:4, 5:4, and 3:5 polymetric relationships. This book is for advanced drummers.
The third book, The 100-Day Journal and Practice Log, carries the practitioner through over three months of practice with a daily quote for inspiration, a musical prompt for creativity, a place to track practice, and a place to write down ideas.
The fourth, fifth, and sixth books are the first books ever written on the topic of the 20th Note (5 subdivisions per beat). These include The Coordination Matrix with the 20th Note, Groove Studies with the 20th Note, and Full Sets with the 20th Note.
As an Educator
I have worked with hundreds of students at all levels from beginners to college kids to professionals. I've has taught rock camps, jazz camps, workshops, and clinics all over the country. I currently have several hundred students from over 40 countries around the world studying my 30-day online course, “The DrumMantra3030”, as well as the exercises from his books & “boutique” drum set lesson packs.
As a Podcaster
I have gathered an abundance of insight into the artistic side of being a drummer, as well as the professional/business side and I love to share what I've learned with everyone.
“​The DrumMantra Podcast​” has received several accolades:
"The 20 Best Music Theory Podcasts of 2021" by Welp Magazine.
"#4 of Top 10 Music Theory Podcasts You Must Follow in 2021" by Feedspot
"Top 10 Music Theory Podcasts You Must Follow in 2020" by FeedSpot
"The 11 Best Podcasts for Exploring Music Theory Concepts on the Go in 2019" by Soundfly.
The DrumMantra Podcast is all about going deeper with your practice in music & drumming.
The goal is to advance the listener's confidence, insight, and inspiration through discussions on topics like approaches to practice, rhythmic concepts, technique, theory, creativity, gear, and the music business.
The host, Rich Stitzel, is a veteran drummer, author, and educator with over 30 years of professional experience as a full-time musician.
As a Host
I have been hosting a Masterclass session called The DrumMantra Masters Series since the beginning of 2020, and has accumulated quite a list of world-class educators and performers.
These masterclasses happen on Zoom (for now) and have been attended by hundreds of drummers from around the world!
I'm honored that these incredible players and educators are associated with DrumMantra.
As a Guest Artist
It's always an honor to be the guest artist for various events that feature music & drumming. From music stores to schools, to online events, to public events - Let's do something together!
