What general part of NY state are you in? Might help in determining cold hardiness. This past winter, I overwintered several species of bamboo in large, plastic containers (Phyllostachys aureus, P. vivax, P. viridis, P. nigra, and P. nidalaria outide, next to the house. It was a relatively mild winter (and I'm in zone 7a), and they kept their leaves. Still, it was meant to be temporary as bamboos are such vigorous growers that they will not be happy for long in containers once they outgrow their containers (so several weeks ago they went into the ground). (Far in the back, with a moot around them so I can keep them in check.) Bamboos are evergreen and would be for you if you had them in the ground (containers are MUCH COLDER and HOTTER than the ground). Yes, you also have to worry about HEAT with containerized bamboo. If you have your heart set on bamboo, you could just give it a shot. Get a bamboo that is winter hardy to zone 6-7 (probably some species of Phyllostachys). Plant in a well-draining soil in the largest size container you can accommodate. Then mulch it. Don't forget to water it (even in winter during thaws). You could also try to protect the plant over winter with burlap or a tarp (if nothing else, it will protect some from wind damage). Good luck!