Discounts Don't Give Us the Blues

Blues Alley consistently brings in some of the top names in jazz and R&B, but seeing a show there can be expensive. On top of the usual ticket prices ($25 to $45 for better-known musicians), each patron gets hit with a $10 food-and-drink minimum, plus a $2.50 surcharge. So when a deal comes around, you need to grab it.

Tickets for this weekend's concerts by veteran Latin jazz pianist Eddie Palmieri cost $35 at the door, but you can order tickets online and see the nine-time Grammy winner for half the price.

Just go to InstantSeats.com and order tickets for the 10 p.m. shows on Thursday or Saturday, then enter the coupon code JAZZDC when you check out. I just tried to purchase a pair and it worked like a charm. You'll still have to order a drink or two to hit the club's minimum, but at least you'll have more money in your pocket when you do.

-- Fritz