Eva Victoria Schockmel (Luxembourg, 2001) earned her Bachelor’s Degree with highest distinction from the Conservatorium van Amsterdam in the class of Gabriel Bianco. She performs with ensembles like Duo Encordé and Pulsar Quartet, and has appeared as soloist i.a. with the Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra. She recently won the 3rd Prize at the 14th Martinez Guitar Duo Competition in Iserlohn 2025, the 3rd Prize as well as the Audience Prize at the Mantovani International Guitar Festival 2025 and was a Finalist at the Aalborg Guitar Competition 2024. Passionate about guitar, percussion and arranging, Eva Victoria is currently pursuing her Master studies as a Scholar at the Royal College of Music in London with Gary Ryan in September 2025.

This concert features the world premiere of a new work, ‘Lullaby’ by Isabella Gellis, commissioned by IGF for its Young Artist Platform.

Will Scott guitar
Kristian richardson guitar
James Hall double bass

Close Keys is a Latin-inspired instrumental group rooted in the rich traditions of Spanish music and the classical guitar repertoire. Founded by long-time friends and award-winning guitarists Kristian Richardson and Will Scott, the ensemble reimagines classical works through dynamic new arrangements and original compositions infused with their shared classical background.

Kristian and Will first began playing together in 2010 at the World Youth Guitar Festival. Their musical partnership deepened when they both joined the Royal College of Music in 2018, continuing to perform in various ensembles. Formed officially in 2023, Close Keys began as a duo project focused on adapting solo classical guitar pieces for two guitars and composing original works designed to resonate from intimate cafés to concert halls. Close Keys has evolved into a vibrant collective featuring two lead guitars, James Hall on bass and Ethan Bonner on percussion, performing as a quartet or a trio. Together, they deliver an energetic and distinctive sound, blending classical finesse with Latin flair.