200 words:

Established in 1997, the JUNO nominated Orchid Ensemble is acclaimed as “one of the most adventurous groups uniting Eastern and Western musical traditions” (Georgia Straight). Made up of internationally renowned Lan Tung (Taiwan/Canada) on the erhu/Chinese violin & vocals, Dailin Hsieh (Taiwan/Canada) on the zheng/Chinese zither, and Jonathan Bernard (Canada) on percussion, the ensemble transforms its Taiwanese roots to create a unique repertoire that breaks down boundaries between musical genres. With influences from Chinese, Indian, Jewish, and Central Asian music, reconstructing within a contemporary framework, and adding spirited improvisation, the Orchid Ensemble takes its audience on unexpected journeys. The Orchid Ensemble has commissioned numerous compositions for its unique instrumentation. It has collaborated with musicians from different backgrounds to present innovative cross-cultural programs. Its interdisciplinary productions fuse music, dance (contemporary, aerial, flamenco, Chinese), visual and media arts to reach new audiences. Touring regularly across North America, the ensemble performs at concert, festivals, as well as schools and educational institutes. The ensemble’s five CDs have won two International Independent Music Awards and received numerous nominations for JUNO, Western Canadian Music Awards, Canadian Independent Music Awards, and Canadian Folk Music Awards.

130 words:

Established in 1997, the JUNO nominated Orchid Ensemble transforms its Taiwanese roots to create a unique repertoire that breaks down genre boundaries. Made up of internationally renowned Lan Tung (Taiwan/Canada) on the erhu/Chinese violin & vocals, Dailin Hsieh (Taiwan/Canada) on the zheng/Chinese zither, and Jonathan Bernard (Canada) on percussion, the ensemble blends influences from Chinese, Indian, Jewish, and Central Asian music, with spirited improvisation and contemporary expressions. The Orchid Ensemble has toured across North America, performing at concert, festivals, schools, and educational institutes. It has collaborated with artists from different backgrounds and disciplines to present innovative cross-cultural programs. The ensemble’s five CDs have won two International Independent Music Awards and received numerous nominations for JUNO, Western Canadian Music Awards, Canadian Independent Music Awards, and Canadian Folk Music Awards.