This is the first installment of Livermore Patch's new weekly Whiz Kid feature. Each week, we'll feature a local young person. If you have someone you'd like to nominate and recognize, send an email to Editor Kris Noceda at kristofer.noceda@patch.com. Please follow the format below and include a high resolution photograph of your nominee.

Patch Whiz Kid of the Week

• Name: Clifford Tam
• Age: 17
• School: Livermore High School
• Recent Accomplishments: 
  • Principal Chair &  Concertmaster at Northern California Band Association's "All-Northern CA Honor Band 2011," Jan. 16 at Stockton's Delta College
  • Named to participate in California Band Directors' Association's "All-State Honor Band 2011" at CBDA Annual Conference, Fresno Convention Center on Feb. 20.
• Key to Awesomeness: Clifford has participated in numerous Honor Bands every year throughout middle and high school. He also is principal chair clarinet in the Livermore High School Band and studies clarinet privately. Clifford is passionate about playing clarinet and often inspires other teen musicians to audition for honor bands alongside him. He has attended school board meetings to represent a student's point of view to the board regarding the importance of music education in Livermore schools. Officials say Clifford's enthusiasm for playing his instrument and the beauty of the music he plays is an inspiration to anyone who is fortunate to hear him play.