about
WHO WE ARE
Together with NYC’s top young musicians, Chris “Tomato” Harfenist has formed THOR, a rock collective for ambitious and creative individuals who want professional, real-world rock experiences. Through structured learning programs in the vibrant atmosphere of our studios, THOR nurtures each student’s creative voice, turns it up, and tears the roof off with it. THOR’s like-minded community members are inspired — and inspire each other.
Much more than just a rock school or music club, THOR rocks elite venues (including The Gramercy Theatre, Highline Ballroom, Bowery Ballroom, BB Kings, Rockwood Music Hall, Brooklyn Bowl and more) and works with artists from world-renowned bands (including members from Furthur, Iron Maiden, Buzzcocks, Twisted Sister, Ween, Testament, Guided By Voices, and others). Through THOR, students have also met with executives from major labels, MTV, and VH1, and have performed on ABC and Sirius Satelite Radio networks; as well as inclusion in and production of a popular a Metal Web-series on Metal Injection called “Louder Education“, hosted by Tomato and Alex Skolnick (Testament, Alex Skolnick Trio, Trans-Siberian Orchestra) which features legendary Metal guests performing with the Metal THOR Group Program!
ABOUT OUR FOUNDER, CHRIS “TOMATO” HARFENIST
Our founder and creative guru is Chris “Tomato” Harfenist, the leader of cult-favorite alternative rock band, The Sound Of Urchin, since 1998, and drummer for Diamondsnake. He has also played with a myriad of other famed artists including Ween, Jack Black, Moby, and more. Throughout his professional career, he’s been signed to major labels and publishers, worked with Grammy-winning producers, performed on national TV, toured extensively, and garnered a worldwide fan base.
Tomato has 20 years experience teaching and mentoring young rock musicians. He has guided students as both a private teacher and as a creative director of many rock programs and performances in NYC. Tomato utilizes every aspect of his music business experience to give each THOR member the knowledge and focus necessary to become their own unique artist.
WHERE WE ROCK
THOR-NYC
584 8th Ave (bet 38/39 St), Mezzanine Level, NYC
Conveniently located in mid-town Manhattan near all public transportation, our 2,000 sq ft studio is in the world famous “Music Building”, former musical home of Madonna, The New York Dolls, and Aerosmith to name a few. We’re actually in the space most recently used by the band The Strokes. We have two main soundproofed rooms with full backline, two adjoining practice/lesson rooms, and communal rooms where the kids can chill between songs. THOR uses only pro equipment including Mesa Boogie, Sabian, Mapex, and more.
THOR-BROOKLYN
182A 26th St, 3rd Fl, South Park Slope, Brooklyn
…serving Carroll Gardens, Park Slope, Brooklyn Heights, Gowanus and all the surrounding areas.
Our second location, THOR-BROOKLYN, opened in Spring 2012. THOR-BK offers complete and comprehensive THOR programs that cater to the younger age-groups in the neighborhood, as well as our first “Adult Rock Program”. We also offer weekly private one-on-one instrument lessons, as well as access to all that THOR NYC has to offer.
THE MISSION OF THOR
To nurture and develop the creative talent of each of our students by providing a vibrant atmosphere and structured learning program, which is constantly challenging and exceptionally rewarding. Our mission is to direct each individual student towards finding their own creative “voice” and style, and to help them hone their creative skills. With our focus on songwriting, recording, and performance in well-known NY venues, under our support our students are able to start on their own personal journey towards becoming professional musicians.
CALL US TO SIGN UP OR FOR MORE INFO – 917.426.9111!