@glassharmonica Thanks for your balanced view and post sharing from your direct observations. I think you have hit the nail on the head. It is very important for us parents of possible future musicians and students on this forum to get this perspective on wide ranging options and opportunities as well as challenges.
We had long discussions with my D as she was trying to make up her mind on the path she wanted to take. Conservatory path or dual degree music + lib arts etc. This forum and the thread on this very topic was very helpful in giving her different view points. So were her current and past teachers of course along with many friends and acquaintances in the field.
Whatever the decision that the young musicians make, it is important to know that while these are monumental decisions now and will largely impact the short & mid-term outcomes and options available to them, in the long run there are many ways to vary the set path in line with evolving expectations, preferences and constraints. Only hard determinant I have come to observe is health. As long as musician has the wellness required to practice his/her craft rest is all up to them to figure out with the support of training they receive and the network they build along the way.