How to Catch a Concert at The Velvet Note

The Velvet Note is more than just a jazz clubits an intimate sanctuary for live music lovers, a cultural landmark in the heart of Tallahassee, Florida, and one of the most revered intimate performance venues in the Southeast. Known for its world-class acoustics, curated lineups of national and international jazz artists, and commitment to preserving the authenticity of live improvisational music, The Velvet Note offers an experience unlike any other. But catching a concert here isnt as simple as showing up on a Friday night. With limited seating, high demand for popular acts, and a booking schedule that often sells out weeks in advance, knowing how to successfully secure a ticket requires strategy, timing, and insider knowledge. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the processfrom researching upcoming shows to navigating the venues ticketing system, optimizing your experience, and avoiding common pitfalls. Whether youre a first-time visitor or a seasoned jazz enthusiast, this tutorial ensures you never miss a note at The Velvet Note.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand The Velvet Notes Programming Style

Before you begin searching for tickets, its essential to understand how The Velvet Note curates its events. Unlike large concert halls that book mainstream acts on predictable cycles, The Velvet Note operates on a more artistic, niche-driven model. Most performances are centered around jazz in its many formstraditional swing, bebop, Latin jazz, fusion, and contemporary avant-garde. Artists often tour in small ensembles: trios, quartets, or solo pianists. Many are Grammy-nominated or have performed at major festivals like Montreux, Newport, or the Village Vanguard.

Because of this, shows are not always announced far in advance. Some artists book residencies only weeks before the performance. Others are invited on short notice after a tour cancellation elsewhere. This unpredictability means you must stay engaged with the venues communication channels rather than relying on broad ticketing platforms.

Step 2: Subscribe to The Velvet Notes Official Newsletter

The single most effective way to stay ahead of ticket releases is to join The Velvet Notes email list. Unlike social media posts, which can be buried under algorithmic noise, the newsletter delivers direct, timely updates. Visit the official website and locate the subscription formtypically found in the footer or on the Events page. Enter your name and a reliable email address. Avoid using temporary or spam-filtered accounts.

Once subscribed, youll receive weekly updates every Tuesday morning, featuring the upcoming two-week schedule. These emails include artist bios, set times, ticket prices, and direct links to purchase. Many shows sell out within 24 hours of the newsletter drop, so opening and acting on these emails immediately is critical.

Step 3: Bookmark and Monitor the Official Events Page

While the newsletter is your primary tool, the official events page is your secondary confirmation source. Go to thevelvetnote.com/events and bookmark it. Refresh the page daily, especially on Monday and Wednesday afternoons, when last-minute additions or rescheduled shows are often posted.

Pay attention to the Coming Soon section. These are shows with confirmed artists but no official ticket release date. When a show moves from Coming Soon to On Sale, it means tickets are live. Set browser notifications or use a free website monitoring tool (discussed later) to get instant alerts when this change occurs.

Step 4: Learn the Ticket Release Schedule

The Velvet Note releases tickets on a consistent weekly cadence. Most shows go on sale at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time on the Monday following the newsletter announcement. For example, if a show is announced in the Tuesday newsletter for the upcoming Friday, tickets typically become available the following Monday at 10 a.m.

There are exceptions:

• Headlining acts with national tours may release tickets on Friday afternoons.
• Special events like holiday concerts or artist residencies may have pre-sale access for members or donors.
• Some shows are sold exclusively through the venues box office and never go online.

Always double-check the event listing for the exact release time. If it says Tickets available at the door, assume seating is extremely limited and arrive early.

Step 5: Create an Account on the Ticketing Platform

The Velvet Note uses a third-party ticketing service called Eventbrite for most of its online sales. Even if youve purchased tickets before, you must create a new account if youve never used Eventbrite through The Velvet Notes portal.

To create an account:

1. Visit thevelvetnote.com/events and click Buy Tickets on your desired show.
2. Youll be redirected to Eventbrite. Click Sign Up in the top-right corner.
3. Use your real name and a verified email address. Avoid aliases.
4. Set a strong password and enable two-factor authentication if prompted.
5. Complete your profile with a valid phone number and payment method.

Having this information pre-loaded saves precious seconds during a high-demand ticket drop. Never attempt to purchase as a guestguest checkouts often fail under load.

Step 6: Prepare Your Device and Network

When tickets go live, dozensif not hundredsof people attempt to purchase simultaneously. Your device and internet connection can make the difference between securing a seat and watching the show sell out.

Use a desktop or laptop computer with a wired Ethernet connection if possible. Wi-Fi can be unreliable during peak hours. Avoid mobile devices for the initial purchasemobile browsers often have slower load times and may not render the full ticket selector correctly.

Close all unnecessary tabs and applications. Disable browser extensions that block ads or scripts, as some may interfere with the ticketing interface. Use Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefoxthey handle high-traffic forms most reliably.

Test your connection speed using a service like Speedtest.net. Aim for at least 25 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload. If your speed is below that, consider switching to a more stable network or using a public librarys Wi-Fi during ticket release hours.

Step 7: Know the Seating Layout and Pricing Tiers

The Velvet Note has a capacity of just 90 seats, arranged in three distinct zones:

• Front Row (Premium): 12 seats directly in front of the stage. These offer the closest view and best acoustics. Typically $45$65.
• Mid-Section (Standard): 48 seats arranged in staggered rows. Excellent sound and sightlines. Usually $35$45.
• Back Row (Value): 30 seats along the rear wall. Slightly elevated, with a more intimate but distant view. Priced at $25$30.

There are no assigned seatsyou select your preferred zone during checkout, and seating is first-come, first-served within that section. If you want to sit with a group, purchase all tickets in one transaction. Splitting purchases may result in non-adjacent seating.

Do not assume General Admission means standing room. All seats are fixed, and the venue does not allow standing during performances.

Step 8: Purchase Tickets at the Exact Release Time

Set a timer for 9:55 a.m. Eastern Time on the release day. Five minutes before the sale, refresh the Eventbrite page. At exactly 10:00 a.m., click Buy Tickets. Do not click multiple timesthis can trigger a system lockout.

If the page loads slowly, wait patiently. Do not refresh. The system may be processing incoming traffic. If you receive an error, wait 1015 seconds and try again. Most successful purchases occur within the first 90 seconds.

When selecting your section, choose your top preference first. If the premium section is sold out, immediately select the next tier. Do not hesitateevery second counts.

Step 9: Confirm Your Purchase and Save Your Ticket

After completing payment, youll receive a confirmation page and an email from Eventbrite. Save both. Download the PDF ticket to your phone and print a hard copy. The Velvet Note accepts digital tickets via the Eventbrite app or a printed copy.

Check your spam folder if you dont receive the email within 5 minutes. If you still dont see it, log into your Eventbrite account and navigate to My Tickets. From there, you can resend the confirmation.

Do not rely solely on your email inbox. The venue staff does not have access to your purchase history and cannot manually issue tickets. Your ticket is only valid if it appears in your Eventbrite account or on your printed copy.

Step 10: Arrive Early on Show Night

The Velvet Note opens its doors 45 minutes before the first set. Doors typically open at 6:15 p.m. for a 7:00 p.m. show. Arriving early ensures you get the best available seat within your selected section.

There is no reserved seating, so your arrival time determines your spot. If you arrive at 6:45 p.m., you may be seated in the back of your section. Arrive at 6:20 p.m. and youll likely get a prime mid-section seat.

There is no line outside the venuejust a small entryway. Be polite and respectful. The staff will guide you to your area. Do not attempt to save seats for others who arrive later.

Best Practices

Practice Ethical Ticket Buying

Resist the temptation to use bots or third-party resellers. The Velvet Note has a strict anti-scalping policy. Tickets purchased through unauthorized platforms are often invalid, and the venue reserves the right to deny entry to anyone holding a ticket not originally issued through their official channels.

Also, avoid purchasing multiple tickets with the intent to resell. The venue tracks IP addresses and purchase patterns. If youre flagged for bulk buying, your account may be suspended.

Join the Membership Program

The Velvet Note offers a $75 annual membership that grants early access to ticket salestypically 48 hours before the public release. Members also receive discounted drinks, priority seating, and invitations to exclusive artist meet-and-greets.

Membership is not required, but for frequent attendees, its a worthwhile investment. Apply at thevelvetnote.com/membership. Membership is limited to 200 people per year and often sells out by late spring.

Build Relationships with Staff

Regular visitors often find that the venues staff remembers them. If you attend shows regularly, say hello to the bartenders and door staff. While they cannot guarantee tickets, they may notify you of last-minute cancellations or unsold seats that become available on the day of the show.

Many patrons have secured seats this wayespecially for sold-out performances. A friendly, respectful presence goes a long way in a small, community-oriented space.

Plan for Weather and Parking

The Velvet Note is located in downtown Tallahassee, near the Florida State University campus. Parking is limited. Street parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, but many spots are restricted after 6 p.m. The closest public lot is at the corner of Park Avenue and Adams Streetabout a 5-minute walk.

During winter months, rain is common. Bring a compact umbrella or light raincoat. The venue does not provide storage for coats or bags. Small purses and wallets are permitted, but backpacks and large bags are discouraged.

Respect the Quiet Environment

The Velvet Note is not a nightclub. Conversations during performances are discouraged. Phones must be silenced. Flash photography is strictly prohibited. The acoustics are designed for nuanced listeningevery cough, whisper, or ringtone disrupts the artistry.

Patrons who violate these rules may be asked to leave without refund. This is not a threatits a standard policy enforced to protect the integrity of the music.

Consider Attending the First Set

Many shows at The Velvet Note have two sets: an early set at 7:00 p.m. and a late set at 9:00 p.m. The first set is often less crowded, and artists are more relaxed before their second performance. Tickets for the first set are frequently easier to obtain, and the energy is just as powerful.

Some artists even offer unique material during the first set that they dont repeat later. If youre choosing between sets, opt for the earlier one.

Tools and Resources

Official Website: thevelvetnote.com

This is your primary source for all accurate, up-to-date information. The site is updated daily and includes artist bios, set times, past performances, and a searchable archive of past shows dating back to 2010. Bookmark it and check it religiously.

Eventbrite: eventbrite.com

The official ticketing platform. Use it only through The Velvet Notes direct links. Avoid third-party sellers claiming to offer verified tickets.

Google Calendar Integration

Once you purchase a ticket, add the event to your Google Calendar. Set a reminder for 30 minutes before doors open. This ensures you wont forget show nighteven if youre traveling or have a busy schedule.

Website Monitoring Tools

Use free tools like ChangeTower or Visualping to monitor The Velvet Notes events page for changes. These tools scan the page every 15 minutes and send you an email alert when new shows are added or ticket links go live.

Spotify and Apple Music Playlists

Follow The Velvet Notes official playlists on Spotify and Apple Music. These are curated by the venues booking team and often feature artists who are scheduled to perform in the coming months. If you hear an artist you love, check their tour scheduletheres a high chance theyll appear at The Velvet Note.

Local Jazz Radio: WFSU 88.9 FM

WFSU broadcasts a weekly jazz program called Jazz Tonight, hosted by local musician and historian Dr. David R. Williams. The show often features interviews with upcoming Velvet Note performers and announces show dates before they appear online. Tune in every Thursday at 8 p.m. Eastern.

Facebook Group: Tallahassee Jazz Enthusiasts

This private Facebook group has over 3,000 active members. Its not an official venue page, but its a hub for locals to share ticket tips, discuss artists, and coordinate carpooling to shows. Search for the group and request to join. Be respectfulself-promotion and ticket resale requests are not allowed.

Yelp and Google Reviews

While not a booking tool, reading recent reviews on Yelp and Google can help you understand what to expect. Look for reviews from the past 30 days. Pay attention to comments about sound quality, staff friendliness, and parking. Avoid reviews that are overly negative without detailthey may be from people who didnt follow the venues rules.

Real Examples

Example 1: Securing Tickets for the Terri Lyne Carrington Trio

In March 2023, jazz drummer and NEA Jazz Master Terri Lyne Carrington announced a two-night residency at The Velvet Note. The event was posted on the newsletter on a Tuesday. By 10:05 a.m. the following Monday, all premium tickets were gone. One patron, Maria L., had subscribed to the newsletter for two years and had her Eventbrite account pre-loaded. She purchased two standard tickets within 22 seconds of the sale going live. She arrived at 6:15 p.m. and secured seats in the third row centerright in front of the drum kit. She later posted on the Facebook group: I didnt even blink. I just clicked. Thats how you do it.

Example 2: The Last-Minute Cancellation

In October 2022, a highly anticipated pianist canceled due to illness. The Velvet Note posted a notice on their website at 4:00 p.m. the day before the show, offering unsold tickets for the 7:00 p.m. set. A regular attendee, James R., had been checking the site daily and saw the update immediately. He called the venue and asked if he could be placed on a waitlist. The staff told him to come at 6:30 p.m. and theyd hold a seat if someone didnt show. He arrived at 6:20 p.m. with a friend. Two people didnt arrive. They were seated in the front row. James later said, I didnt win the lottery. I just showed up.

Example 3: The Membership Advantage

Patrons who joined the $75 membership in January 2023 received early access to the 2024 calendar. One member, Elena T., secured tickets for a sold-out performance by jazz vocalist Dianne Reeves three weeks before the public sale. She later attended a member-only brunch with Reeves and received a signed CD. The membership paid for itself in one night, she said.

Example 4: The Misguided Resale

In June 2023, a ticket was listed on Craigslist for $120 for a $35 show. The buyer arrived at the venue, presented the ticket, and was denied entry. The venue confirmed the ticket had been canceled due to a duplicate purchase. The buyer lost $120 and missed the show. The Velvet Note does not honor tickets sold outside their official channels. Always buy directly.

FAQs

Can I buy tickets at the door?

Yes, but only if seats remain unsold. Most shows sell out in advance, especially on weekends. If you plan to buy at the door, arrive at least one hour before the show and be prepared to be turned away.

Are children allowed at concerts?

Children over the age of 12 are permitted, but all attendees must have a ticket. The environment is quiet and focusedchildren under 12 are discouraged. For family-friendly events, check the website for Jazz for Kids nights, which occur quarterly.

Do you serve food?

The Velvet Note offers a small selection of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and desserts. No full meals are served. There are several excellent restaurants within a two-block radius if youd like to dine before the show.

Is there a dress code?

No formal dress code exists, but most patrons dress in smart casual attire. Think slacks, dresses, or nice jeans. Avoid athletic wear, flip-flops, or overly casual clothing. The atmosphere is refined, and dressing respectfully enhances the experience.

What if I cant attend after buying tickets?

Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. However, if you notify the venue at least 48 hours in advance, they may allow you to exchange your tickets for another show within the same calendar year, subject to availability.

Can I record the performance?

Audio and video recording are strictly prohibited. The artists and venue rely on ticket sales for income, and unauthorized recordings violate copyright and performance agreements. Phones must remain in your pocket.

Do you offer student discounts?

Yes. With a valid student ID, you can receive $5 off standard tickets for any show. Present your ID at the door when you arrive. This discount cannot be combined with other offers.

Are there wheelchair-accessible seats?

Yes. The venue has two designated wheelchair-accessible spots with companion seating. Please notify the venue in advance by email at info@thevelvetnote.com so they can prepare the space. These seats are not available through online booking.

How far in advance are shows booked?

Most shows are booked 28 weeks in advance. Major artists may be scheduled 36 months ahead. There is no fixed calendareach booking is artist-driven. Stay subscribed to the newsletter to see whats coming next.

Can I request a specific artist to perform?

Yes. The Velvet Note welcomes artist suggestions via their contact form. While they cannot guarantee bookings, they do consider all recommendations. If multiple patrons request the same artist, it increases the likelihood of a booking.

Conclusion

Catching a concert at The Velvet Note is not just about attending a performanceits about participating in a living tradition of musical excellence. This intimate venue doesnt just host jazz; it nurtures it. Every note played here is a conversation between artist and audience, shaped by silence as much as sound. To be part of that conversation requires more than luckit demands preparation, patience, and respect.

By following the steps outlined in this guidesubscribing to the newsletter, preparing your ticketing profile, understanding the seating structure, and arriving earlyyou position yourself not as a spectator, but as a true patron of the art. Youll not only secure a seatyoull deepen your connection to the music and the community that sustains it.

Remember: The Velvet Note is not a commodity. Its a cultural institution. The artists who perform here do so because they believe in the power of live, unfiltered sound. Your role is to listen deeply, arrive respectfully, and honor the space. When you do, youll find that the music doesnt just fill the roomit changes you.

Start today. Subscribe. Bookmark. Set your alarm. And when the next show is announced, be ready. The next great performance is waitingand it wont wait for you.