Lee Pophal is originally from the United States where he completed a Bachelors of Music at the University of Wisconsin. While studying double bass, euphonium, conducing, and music education, he substituted for the Wausau Symphony and won an Outstanding Musicianship Award at the UW
Stevens Point Jazz Festival. After college, Lee moved to California where he taught high school band and orchestra, worked as the conductor and music director for the Tehachapi Pops Orchestra and Bakersfield College Orchestra, and performed with the Bakersfield Winds.

Thereafter, Lee moved to Shanghai, China, where he current resides. He teaches middle and high school orchestra, coaches chamber ensembles and teaches bass lessons. In addition, he performs regularly as a conductor, bassist, vocalist and brass player for various groups. He
also is currently studying Arranging and Orchestration through the Berklee School of Music and working on various arranging and scoring projects.