Dr. KuanFen Liu is a distinguished choral and orchestral conductor, educator, and arts leader whose career is dedicated to cultivating vibrant and inclusive musical communities. Renowned for her dynamic and inspiring leadership on the podium, she stands as a trailblazer for women in classical music, exemplifying the power of vision, artistry, and advocacy in every performance.

Born and raised in Taiwan, Dr. Liu began piano studies at age six, later expanding her musical pursuits to include violin and voice, and entered a music boarding school in seventh grade. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Vocal Performance from Tunghai University, her Master of Music in Choral Conducting from the Eastman School of Music, and her Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral and Sacred Music from the USC Thornton School of Music.

Dr. Liu has studied with world-renowned conductors and ensembles, including participation in masterclasses with Helmuth Rilling and Robert Shaw, and served as Assistant Conductor of the USC Chamber Choir. Her conducting is widely recognized for its clarity, expressiveness, and collaborative spirit, inspiring both musicians and audiences alike.

A passionate advocate for women in classical music, Dr. Liu has established a lasting legacy in Ventura County. She served sixteen years as Music Director of the Chancel Choir at the First United Methodist Church of Ventura and is the founder of both the Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra and the Channel Islands Choral Association. Through these organizations, she has expanded access to classical music, created meaningful opportunities for emerging artists, and nurtured young voices throughout the region.

Dr. Liu’s visionary leadership also extends to fostering emerging young artists and cultivating the next generation of music patrons through innovative educational initiatives and youth-oriented concert experiences. Her work continues to affirm the essential role of women on the podium while promoting excellence, inclusivity, and engagement in orchestral and choral music at every level.