Clifton grew up in a musical family and learned piano and the percussion instruments at a young age. He received a bachelor’s degree in Music from Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, and a Master’s degree in music in the U.S.
He played percussion for the Chinese Ballet Symphony for 4 years in Beijing and played drums in various orchestras in Southern California for many years. As a piano accompanist he often played in churches as well as various events accompanying violinists, celloists, wind instrument players, and vocalists. He is an experienced musician in various genres including major symphonies, ballet music, marching music, and rock music.
He has been teaching piano and percussion instruments for over twenty years. During these years, he has successfully cultivated and nurtured student’s musical interest and artistic talent. Most of his students were accepted into prestigious universities and were very successful in their careers while keeping music as their lifelong passion. Although his students’ age and background are vastly different, their enthusiasm for music is alike. Constantly learning new pieces and composing his own works from time to time, his love and passion for music inspired students to appreciate music and aspire to be better persons.