Summary: We're back for episode 111. On this episode Korey Kingston and Funky Phil catch up, talk drums, recording, and of course a Soap Box from Korey. Our guest this week is drummer, percussionist, educator, author, and composer Rich Stitzel. From Rich: The DrumMantra was founded by me, Rich Stitzel, a professional live & session drummer, author, and educator living in Chicago, IL. As a third-generation musician & educator, my passion for “going under the hood” to figure out the components that make a great drummer has led me into a robust and long career of playing concerts, giving clinics, touring, recording records, writing books, composing music, and educating drummers all over the world. I have been a professional drummer since 1991. I've toured the world, played with Grammy winners, platinum sellers, and countless artists spanning many genres of music in my 25+ year career. I proudly endorses the following companies: Evans Drumheads, Vic Firth Sticks, Low Boy Beaters, Moravian Percussion (The Boxkit), Polynome App., Prologix Percussion, Sabian Cymbals, and Yamaha Drums. I have written two books. 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. 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. 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. I have a podcast called, “The DrumMantra Podcast” which was recently named “Top Eleven Podcasts for Studying Music Theory on the Go”. I have been a full-time professional musician since about 1992, but I started playing in my first bands as early as 1985. I've toured the US extensively as well as done shows in Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Sinai, Mexico, Canada, and Panama. I've worked with artists in many different genres including rock legend Cathy Richardson (Jefferson Starship), jazz violinist Christian Howes, guitar hero Joey Hoekstra (Cher, Whitesnake), country music superstar Miranda Lambert, soul legend Mary Wilson (The Supremes), Americana artists Ernie Hendrickson, Anne Harris, and Brad Thompson. I've also played in many original bands ranging from pop to instrumental fusion. I currently reside and work in Chicago, USA where I do corporate & session work for an organization called BeatMix Music. For more info on Rich or The Drum Mantra please visit: www.drummantra.com For more info on Korey Kingston visit www.koreykingston.com or follow @koreykingston For more info on Funky Phil visit www.philpardell.com or follow @philpardell $5 a month lessons: HERE Drum Brigade Merch: HERE
