Benjamin Lee is a professional upright bassist, electric bassist, composer, and educator based in Oakland, CA. Originally from Los Angeles, Benjamin earned a B.A. from UCSD studying under legendary pianist and saxophonist Kamau Kenyatta, and spent 7 years on the scene in San Diego before making the move north. Since his arrival to Oakland in 2015, Benjamin has put together an impressive track record of live performances, studio recordings, original compositions, and educational work.As a side-man, Mr. Lee supports(ed): The Grand Avenue Trio, The Orbital Quintet, The Apollo Trio, Individúo, Rabbit Quinn, MarQue, Pacific Standard, Felipe y Las Estrellas del Mar, and Dust Motif to name a few. From the many improvisational traditions of Black American Music to Bachata, Motown to Pop, Folk to Chamber-music and beyond, his skill sets spans wide, and contines to grow. As a dedicated studio musician, Benjamin has recorded 25 albums in the last 9 years as well as a myriad of single sessions, working in person at places like Fantasy (RIP), 25th Street Studios, and the one and only Airship Laboratories, as well as satellite from his home studio in Oakland. Often hired as a musical director, Benjamin is the point person to assemble both the musical and technical personnel behind many of the projects he contributes to. With a background in event production and strong project management skills, you can rest assured that Benjamin's skill set will be an invaluable asset in your corner.As a leader, Benjamin:- Founded the TOaG Quartet in 2018 as one part working band and one part educational ensemble, playing an all original book of his compositions and supporting local schools- Co-founded the EDBL Music Collective during the COVID-19 pandemic to compose handmade music for video, film, advertising, and sonic branding- Serves as Community Development Manager at Airship Laboratories - Serves as Teaching Faculty at The East Bay Center for Performing Arts- Served as Teaching Faculty at Oakland Public Conservatory- Serves as a clinician at several OUSD school sites including Oakland High School and Edna Brewer Middle School- Maintains a pool of private bass students in person and remotely- Works with other creative professionals to advocate for the arts and culture at the city levelAn avid outdoorsman and definite nerd, Benjamin’s vibe is self-described as disciplined and joyful.Please visit www.OfficiaLeeProductions.com for more information on services, music, and booking.