Students in Henry County Schools’ BASE after school program create and record original music with Omorro and Wendy Hogan of Independent Playground.
STOCKBRIDGE - “I loved learning,” Omorro Hogan said. “I just didn’t love school.”
Today, Hogan and his wife Wendy work with students through Henry County Schools’ BASE after school program, helping children write and record original songs through their mobile music program, Independent Playground. Hogan says his goal is to create the kind of creative environment he rarely experienced growing up.
“The kids cheer when we show up,” Hogan said laughing. “I’ve never been cheered in my life.”
“My job is to light fires,” he said.
Inside cafeterias and after school classrooms, students brainstorm hooks, clap out rhythms, and take turns recording verses while classmates crowd around to listen. Some children arrive shy and guarded. Others come in loud and overflowing with energy. Hogan says both belong.
At some schools, students and staff affectionately call Hogan “The Music Man.”
“We’re not trying to make perfect songs,” he said. “We’re trying to help kids feel free enough to create.”
For Hogan, the biggest victories often happen after the school day ends.
One student, a 10-year-old boy dealing with behavioral struggles, began making beats at home after joining the program. One day, he proudly showed Hogan more than 150 tracks he had created on his own laptop.
“That one hit my heart,” Hogan said softly.
School staff have noticed it too. Flippen Elementary School Site Director Linda Milner says students constantly ask when “Mr. Omorro” is coming back.
“All I can say is that Independent Playground is what kids need,” she said. “It is such a positive vibe in their young lives.”
To find out whether Independent Playground participates at your child’s school or to learn more, contact:
Instagram: @independentplaygroundstudios
Phone: 1-907-312-8257