Rich Stitzel

Rich Stitzel currently serves as the President of Freelance Drummer, where he leverages his extensive experience to shape the platform into a leading resource for professional musicians worldwide. In this leadership role, Rich oversees strategic initiatives, collaborates with industry partners, and champions innovative projects that connect talented artists with diverse performance opportunities. His deep understanding of the music industry, combined with his expertise in percussion, music education, and entertainment, allows him to foster a vibrant community that supports both emerging and seasoned musicians.

Throughout his nearly three-decade-long career, Rich has built a reputation as a versatile and dynamic performer, touring extensively across the globe. His performances have taken him from the jazz clubs of Europe to the stages of Egypt and Sinai, showcasing his adaptability across genres such as jazz-fusion, country, soul, and pop. Notable collaborations include working with jazz violinist Christian Howes, legendary soulstress Mary Wilson of The Supremes, country superstar Miranda Lambert, and the Jim Widner Big Band. These experiences have honed his skills in percussion, recording, and live performance, making him a sought-after session musician and touring artist.

Beyond performing, Rich is a passionate advocate for music education. He has dedicated significant time to teaching drum techniques, early childhood music education, and curriculum development, emphasizing the importance of nurturing musical talent from a young age. His proficiency with tools like Pro Tools and his skills in writing, editing, and curating educational content further demonstrate his commitment to fostering the next generation of musicians. As President of Freelance Drummer, Rich continues to blend his industry expertise, performance background, and educational initiatives to inspire and empower musicians worldwide.