BIS is a respected independent label with distribution in 46 countries. Among the label's best-known projects are the highly regarded series of the complete cantatas of J.S. Bach performed by the Bach Collegium Japan and the edition of the complete works of Jean Sibelius, featuring Finland's Lahti Symphony Orchestra, that helped make a star of conductor Osmo V‹nsk‹.
The North Carolina Symphony has self-produced some concert recordings in recent years but has not made any disc for distribution beyond the state for more than two decades, according to the Journal. However, audiences and donations, along with the level of the NCSO's performances, have reportedly risen since the arrival of music director Grant Llewellyn in 2004.
