Jazz

Next year, I will be (hopefully) studying jazz in college. It is a dream come true for me. I am going to be able to learn about the music that brings me the most joy and fulfillment. But I ponder the question, "does it bring others joy and fulfillment?" I am becoming increasingly naive to the state of jazz today. It is an art music. Not by any means is it popular music. While filling college application after college application, I have to think of the future. What will a degree in jazz do for me? There's no answer.
The spectrum of what is considered jazz is getting broader by the minute. While traditionalists reject new music that won't swing, the overall idea is that jazz can be anything. I consider myself a traditionalist when it comes to my taste in jazz music. Duke Ellington said it best, "If it ain't got that swing, it don't mean a thing!"
I find people considering popular-instrumental music, from artists such as Chris Botti and Kenny G, with jazz. It upsets me. In the jazz world, Kenny G is taboo. He is labeled as a "sell out" and disregarded. That being said, the man can pay his bills. But regardless, Kenny G should be labeled in the genre of "instrumental pop music", not jazz. What makes jazz interesting, to me, is the swung feel and the interactive and improvised qualities between the musicians. Instrumental pop music is heavily rehearsed and focuses on melody. The contrast between the two makes it difficult for me to understand the appeal of instrumental pop music.
I would really just like to make a cry for attention. People, jazz isn't dead. If you would be so kind, listen to jazz. It is completely American and completely original. Let's all protect jazz because it is ours.