Meet Résonance: the local voices bringing Christmas to life

Above: Résonance performs in the 2012 Christmas Celebration.

When Maestro Ernest Richardson began planning the Omaha Symphony’s annual Christmas Celebration back in 2012, he faced a challenge: how do you make a beloved holiday tradition feel fresh, dazzling, and unforgettable year after year?

His answer was bold and brilliant—create a local vocal ensemble that could sing, dance, and bring Broadway-level energy to the stage. That vision gave birth to Résonance, and for more than a decade, this dynamic group has been the heartbeat of our holiday concerts.

Since their debut, Résonance has become an essential part of the Omaha Symphony experience. They’ve wowed audiences not only at every Physicians Mutual Omaha Symphony Christmas Celebration, but also in blockbuster productions like Pirates of the Caribbean in Concert and even Gustav Holst’s The Planets in Spring 2025. Résonance is performing in three productions with the Omaha Symphony in the 2025/26 Season:

Scary Movie Music
Physicians Mutual Omaha Symphony Christmas Celebration
Disney’s Frozen in Concert

What started as a handful of singers has grown into a powerhouse ensemble of dozens of talented performers who light up stages across Omaha. Their versatility and charisma make every concert feel complete.

This December 11–14, Résonance returns for six spectacular performances of the Physicians Mutual Omaha Symphony Christmas Celebration at the Holland Center. Expect soaring vocals, dazzling choreography, and heartwarming holiday carols, all backed by the full Omaha Symphony orchestra.

This year’s program promises:

• Show-stopping numbers featuring Résonance’s signature harmonies and high-energy dance.
• Magical moments for the whole family, from beloved carols to surprises that will make you smile.
• A festive atmosphere that transforms the Holland Center into a winter wonderland.

Résonance also hosts Holiday Cheers, a special pre-Christmas Celebration dinner package on Saturday, December 13th, which features food and drink with the cast at Nosh Restaurant and Wine Lounge, exclusive, limited-edition gifts from Résonance, and a ticket discount! Learn more here.

If you’ve never experienced this concert, this is a great year to start a new tradition. And if you’re a returning fan, prepare to be amazed, because Résonance and the Omaha Symphony are pulling out all the stops.

Guiding Résonance are Executive Director and Founder Tara Cowherd Richardson and Engagement Director Lauren Morrissey. Their passion for music and community shines through every performance. Want to learn more about their story? Check out our podcast episode of OSA Backstage featuring Tara and Lauren below!

The connections in Résonance run deep, and in a few cases, singing with the ensemble can become a fun for the whole family! You may have noticed Tara’s familiar last name; she is married to the conductor of the Physicians Mutual Christmas Celebration, Maestro Ernest Richardson, and their son Liam has graced the Christmas Celebration stage in years past. Other families, like the Prietos, have made performing with Résonance a cherished tradition. Matias and Martín Prieto first performed with Résonance at the Christmas Celebration in 2022, and both are now Young Artists with the group. Their mother, Diana De La Cardena, sings in the Christmas Chorus! These connections make the music even more meaningful.

The countdown to Christmas has begun, Résonance rehearsals are already underway for both Disney’s Frozen in Concert and the Physicians Mutual Christmas Celebration. In early December, Resonance will join our musicians and production team at the Scottish Rite to bring this holiday spectacular to life.

Tickets are going fast! Don’t miss your chance to experience Omaha’s most joyful holiday tradition.
December 11–14 | Holland Performing Arts Center