I'm new to the Orchid world, I started my collection with a Cymbidium I purchased at a local Community College Plant sale. It was sold as Cymbidium 'sinense' alba. I purchased it in 2003 as a blooming plant which had a nice fragrance. This last year all the growth died back, I can see roots growing up the sides of the clear pot but yet no leaves emerging from the dormant or dead tops. Is this normal or is there something I am doing wrong. It has been like this through 2007.
You are doing something wrong. Cymbidiums do not need a rest period and should not lose their leaves until the pseudobulbs are several years old, but by that time it should have lots of other, newer growths to keep up with the photosynthesis.
Cym. sinense is an easy plant to grow, given warm temperatures, slightly shady conditions, lots of moisture, and an open, airy growing medium.