At the risk of simplification, jazz lost its vitality when it left the bandstand and entered the university, although the academy may be the only thing keeping the music alive, at least in the U.S.
^^^^ CB: I've had the same simple impression. I think there is a larger fan base in Europe ( outside of universities) than in the US.
We do have jazz every Monday, Thursday and Friday at Bert's. Marketplace in Detroit. James Carter come there from time to time ? He and other young musicians seem to be a new generation very much in the classic tradition.
http://www.yelp.com/biz/berts-market-place-detroit