He earned his baccalauréat in elementary mathematics, then entered the Paris Conservatory in 1944 and began studying piano under Armand Ferté, composition under Tony Aubin, and analysis under Olivier Messiaen.
While at the Conservatory, between 1948 and 1953 he received five first prizes (in piano, chamber music, analysis, composition, and harmony).
In 1960, he was appointed professor of solfège in the Paris Conservatory, then counsellor of piano studies (Conseilleur aux Études) in 1966, and analysis in 1971.
On an invitation from the Chinese government, he became a professor of composition at the Central Academy in Beijing.
His many works, which include symphonies, concertos, ballets, and ensemble and chamber music, have been performed throughout France, Germany, and Italy as well as in the United States and Canada.