Adaptability is key. A great way to get work is to give work. People will call you for work when they know that you have work to give. People want musicians who can lead ajob, run the show, get the people to the gig on time, etc. There is a great debate as to if it's wise to directly contactBroadway players in an effort to sub for them.
Most veterans alreadyhave lengthy sub lists, so it's really a crapshoot.
Do not BS around your reason for getting in touch. Veteransappreciate straightforward requests. Orpheus, St. Luke's, AmericanSymphony Orchestra, Riverside Symphony, Brooklyn Philharmonic and theLong Island Philharmonic. Every gig counts, no matter how poorly it pays. Your next job justmight come from your stand partner at that little run-out in Jersey.