I dont know about the 'edge' thing - I think CC gives you that

)
But from the perspective of - will this really be something my kid wants to focus 4 years on and study in college - YES! It is worth it...the cost of programs is less than the cost of a semester in college. We decided it was a way to see if this was really "it" or should the focus shift to a more Liberal Arts education.
Of course, this also makes them a double-edged sword in that you are then going to be living what so many here are right now - auditions, decisions on MT programs, rejections...etc.....
Good Luck
MikksMom
PS- My D attended the 6 week CAP21 program in NYC last summer.