I think people may have overlooked the point that the majority of students of all courses nowadays are simply stalling for time - I know I am. A four year course equates to four more years to decide your path in the world before you have to get a proper job. University courses have always had slightly ethereal merits - think of all the courses in subjects like 'classics' - I've never met anyone who was a 'classicist' for a job.

After three years at music college I'm just about ready to earn a living. Thats not because I've been taught the 'rights and wrongs' of music, it's because I'm older, more sensible, and more able to cope with having to earn a living.

Besides - if Mr. Stephenson needs intensive training in how to be a folk musician, what hope is there for anyone else of coming close?