Create a music website that includes video and audio of your performances. Think of your website as a chance to showcase your talents to potential fans and venues which may wish to hire your services.
Use a mailing list and include a sign-up form on your website to keep people notified of your upcoming concerts and activities as a musician. Send out a monthly newsletter to keep fans coming back to your website and interested in your music.
Make business cards with your name, email, contact phone and instrument specialization. If you teach, include that information as well. Distribute the cards at concerts, conventions and to local businesses.
Create a recording of your music and distribute it with an online retailer. There are several companies that will distribute your music to major companies for a percentage of your profits.
Perform for free at first to get a name for yourself and build a resume. Offer your services to hotels, coffee shops, bars and restaurants.
Sell merchandise at your concerts to help bring in additional income. If you are playing for free to get started, this is a great way to bring in a little income and gain the support of your fans.
Distribute your recorded CD to radio stations along with a press release, high-quality photo of you or your band and contact information.
Teach privately to help supplement your income. You can advertise at local universities, colleges, grocery stores, coffee shops, public and private schools.