Decide what kind of job you want. When it comes to finding work, playing piano in a bar on weekends is quite a different pursuit from landing a gig as a touring pianist with a band or theatrical troupe.
Research opportunities such as weddings, parties and corporate events in your area. Such notifications can generally be found in local newspapers. Contact the organizer and offer your services -- and local references.
Contact booking agents. Every city that has steady demand for musicians has booking agents who are hired to provide professional musicians for everything from a club gig to a private party at a hotel. In return for getting you the job, the agent will take a standard 10 percent commission. Some agents ask for as much as 15 to 20 percent, but that number is usually negotiable.
If your goal is to develop a career instead of just find a job, hire a personal manager. A manager does more than a booking agent, guiding you in every step on your path to steady work. A manager will often ask for 15 to 20 percent of your earnings. However, if you are also represented by a booking agent, that number typically drops to 10 percent.
Contact venues that hire musicians, such as local bars, clubs or hotel lounges. The venue will have an entertainment or booking manager who schedules performers. To get the job, you'll have to audition or submit a high-quality demo -- on DVD, CD or tape -- that showcases your talent.
Network with working musicians. They usually know before anyone else does where the jobs are and what the buyer is looking for. If you identify an appropriate opportunity, ask for a referral to the buyer if you can find one.