I wrote every keys player on Broadway when I first came to NYC. At least, every player that had their email listed in the union directory. I told them I was new to town, looking for advice and if they knew of any gigs, big or small, I’d be happy to take them.

I got a lot of responses – the players on these shows had to work their way up, too, and they are sympathetic. But most couldn’t help me. But some would meet me for coffee, and I met with a few.

I stayed in touch with the few I met, became good friends with some of them. They introduced me to other players. I invited them to see me play when I had the opportunity. I would drop everything and take any gig – big or small – that they passed to me.

It took me 2 1/2 years of doing that before I finally got a sub spot (which, actually, just happened for me this month).

The 802 (union) lists the musicians on each Broadway show on their website, but it’s in the members only section. Usually, though, that’s only accurate to opening night as well. I find that the information on ibdb.com is as accurate as it gets.