In celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the BCCME in 2012, the BCCME recorded their first CD “Bamboo Shoots in Spring” at CBC Studio 1 in Vancouver, sponsored by the Canada Council, BC Arts Council and the Minister of State for Multiculturalism of BC Government. Two live performances and a recording session combined to give 8 new tracks from traditional to contemporary styles featuring a ‘dream team’ full 16 piece ensemble. “Bamboo Shoots in Spring” showcases many exciting solo concerto performances by Gui-Lian Liu (pipa) , Mei Han and Randy Raine-Reusch (duo zhengs), Zhong-Xi Wu(suona), and by turn peaceful heartfelt and lively renditions of traditional Chinese classics. Complimenting the traditional works are 5 premiere recordings of Canadian intercultural works. These ensemble works by conductor Rui-Shi Zhuo, John Oliver, Mei Han/Randy Raine-Reusch, and Zhi-Min Yu are the results of many years of collaborations between the BCCME and Canadian composers. They are landmark works exemplifying the vast sonic possibilities of the colourful Chinese instruments and lead the way in the development of Chinese instrumental music in Canada.
 
For this recording, the BCCME were joined by musically adventurous guests: composer/conductor John Oliver, composer/multi-instrumentalist Randy Raine-Reusch and Clarinet virtuoso Francois Houle. Mark Armanini is the CD producer.
 

Track List:
 
Primo* (Rui-Shi Zhuo) (12:08)
Dragon Boat (Bu-Chan Zhang / orch. M. Armanini) (8:05)
Early Spring by the Han River (Tong-Xiang Ren / orch. M. Armanini) (4:49)
Dragon Dog** (Mei Han, Randy Raine-Reusch / orch. M. Armanini) (5:10)
Moon Over the Border** (trad. arr. Su-Wen Peng) (5:32)
Shadow of the Candle (Zhi-Min Yu) (5:59)
Deep Night** (trad. Kunqu Tunes) (6:12)
Eagle Flies to Mountain*** (John Oliver) (18:43)
 
4. 5. Rui-Shi Zhuo, Conductor
Track 8. John Oliver, Conductor
 
Recorded at CBC Studio 1, Vancouver
* 2010 Canada Council for the Arts: BCCME Commission
** live recording February 16 2013
*** 2005 BC Arts Council: BCCME Commission, live and studio recording
Tracks 1. 2. 3. 4. 6. 8. SOCAN