Liu as born in Tangshan, Hebei Province and later went to the United States under the auspices of the Chinese Music Society of North America.
A prolific composer, Liu wrote pieces spanning instrumental, vocal, choral and song-and-dance music.
In 1999, ‘The Sanmen Gorge Capriccio’ was chosen into the album of "stage craft of new China and master works of movies and TV art".
For over 40 years, Liu visited many countries to attend interviews, give lectures and serve as guest conductor in many different orchestras.
He was widely recognised for his outstanding contribution to the promotion of Chinese classical music and international cultural exchange.