The Daan Kluwer Quintet is one of the winners of Keep an Eye The Records 2026. The band consists of saxophonist Daan Kluwer and CvA alumni Ella Zirina, guitar; Jelle Willems, keyboards; William Barrett, double bass, and Tim Hennekes, drums.
“We were completely captivated!" said the jury. "A strong band sound made up of enormously talented soloists, nuanced, subtle, and dynamic. The band truly told a beautiful story, and we experienced them as an energetic and physical ensemble.”

The band Woodcraft, with CvA student Joshua Herwig as cellist and vocalist, is also a winner. From the jury report: “Ready to go in every respect! Great use of instruments. A strong quintet with clearly audible classical and modern influences. Very entertaining and theatrically engaging in a beautiful way. Exceptionally well-rehearsed, and great admiration for the fact that everything was performed from memory.”

Each winning band is awarded an amount of € 10.000,- to be put towards recording an album, coaching during the recording process, and a tour of Dutch venues.