In an effort to expand Esplanade's efforts to engage Singaporean artists, the arts giant has announced their newest live music venue: Annexe Studio.

The two-storey building is originally the site of DXO Club, but it has since been revamped to host Esplanade's many upcoming events and initiatives, the latest of which is the Mosaic Associate Artist programme, roping in pianist Chok Kerong and post-rock band In Each Hand A Cutlass.

“Over the years, Esplanade has collaborated with many established and emerging musicians through our festivals, series and mentorship programmes such as Late Nite, Baybeats Budding Bands and Mosaic Jazz Fellows," says Esplanade programmer Joshua Tan. 

"The Mosaic Associate Artist programme is Esplanade’s commitment to a select group of exceptional Singapore musicians where, over a two to three-year period, we will partner with them to explore performance opportunities, create new work and expand their international networks.”

The venue will be catered towards live music, theatre and dance performances, and judging by its size, it may just be the definitive venue to cater mid-sized crowds.

To celebrate the Annexe Studio's official launch, Esplanade will be inviting Chok Kerong and In Each Hand A Cutlass to hold their own shows at the venue.

These shows will also be the start of their respective overseas tours, with Chok Kerong Organ Trio set to play at Tokyo Jazz Festival in September, while In Each Hand A Cutlass will be heading to Brisbane for BIGSOUND, and Shanghai for Concrete & Grass Festival, which also boasts A$AP Ferg, Stephen Malkmus And The Jicks and Machinedrum among its lineup.

Tickets for their headlining Annexe Sessions shows will be $15 at the door, inclusive of one drink.

The Annexe Sessions with Chok Kerong Organ Trio will be happening on September 1st at 8pm, with In Each Hand A Cutlass taking the reigns the next day at 11pm.

Read our interview with Chok Kerong, where he discusses D'Angelo, studying in Manhattan and his obsession with jazz music.

Watch In Each Hand A Cutlass perform 'Overture' here: