I couldnt possibly comment on the Cardiff course but seeing as you are based in Wales, would you get cheaper entrance fees as a result of Welsh Assembly? (this may have changed now as Im out of the loop all things educational)
Saying that, I dont suppose its wise to choose a University on financial terms if the course/facilities aren't up to scratch.
I did see a performance by the graduating jazz students from the welsh college of music and drama few years back conducted and written by Keith Tippett which was fantastic