I do agree with most of what you say Will, I too have worked in Academia for many years and I am sure that you are aware of how highly politicized it is. I based my statement on what I have seen and heard and much of it is highly charged political rhetoric which mitigates against arts and culture on the grounds that it is elitist, that music is the hobby of the one percent and all that rubbish,
I also see that universities are -becoming very expensive trade schools. I feel very strongly that music enjoyment and education should be available to all, but it seems to be a losing battle, unfortunately.