The mission of Voices of Omaha is to present an annual performance of Handel’s Messiah without admission charge as a gift to ... the community. Voices of Omaha is committed to development of a diverse audience and chorus membership by maintaining relevance in the present, and nurturing musicians of all ages to assure an audience and chorus for the future. Voices of Omaha gave its first performance of Handel’s Messiah on December 14, 1969, in the Omaha Civic Auditorium with soloists and orchestra under the direction of the late Leota Sneed Strong. Since then, the chorus has enjoyed the leadership of artistic directors: Thomas Brantigan, Michael Dryver, Z. Randall Stroope, Greg Zielke, Stanley E. Schmidt, Edward B. Hurd, and Paul Koenig. The 1969 concert was a free gift to the community with no admission charge – a tradition which continues to this day. To offset more than $30,000 in annual expenses, the chorus members pay dues, hold a fundraiser, and even pay for the poinsettias on the stage. The audience is invited to assist by participating in a free-will offering. Chorus membership is open to persons of all religions, creeds and races. They are drawn from Omaha and the surrounding area for a 50-mile radius. No audition is required for chorus membership. Two charter members still sing with the choir. In recognition of its 45 years of service to the Omaha community, the November 24, 2013 performance was proclaimed "Voices of Omaha Appreciation Day in Nebraska" by Governor Dave Heineman. read more