[quote name='Cantdosleepy' post='115018' date='Jan 6 2008, 09:43 PM']1) How good do you need to be to get into one[/quote]
Competent but not blisteringly amazing, I'd say. You'll need to be a quick learner of stuff but also realise how to make the basslines work in a band situation rather than playing everything straight off the record. If you're already used to playing in a band, you'll have a head start.
[quote name='Cantdosleepy' post='115018' date='Jan 6 2008, 09:43 PM']2) Is it worth doing, from a financial point of view? I'm not talking about thousands of pounds a night - if I could come away from a gig with fifty quid in my pocket every time that would be smashing. Are those the big leagues? I've got good enough equipment, I reckon.[/quote]
If it's for a bit of pocket money, then yes. It's a hobby that pays for itself. If you're looking to make a living out of the money (ie pay the bills) it's a bit depressing. Joining a really busy function band would prob be the only way you'd do it. Remember, you'll have overheads to cover (transport, new strings, new gear, clothes, etc etc). £50 a night won't cover that!