Doesn't mean they aren't incredible (many are and have performed and still do with major artist.) But the pay is very inconsistent even after you are on a big tour. As more often than not these musicians (and singers etc) have to hustle up the next gig.
It is a bit complicated really to give any simple answer here as I know too much about the lifestyle, the financials, the politics, the culture to give any simple answers.
But I will tell you depending on his level I would suggest two things after asking and accessing two things about him yourself (and possibly with him.) What is his PASSION level for this guitar playing and secondarily and just as important what is his CONSISTENCY level in pursuing his craft--playing, practicing, and daily commitment?
I can tell you right now. If he is not super dedicated with his action of constantly playing AND practicing (always getting better), I would be a bit weary of supporting collegiac level investment. His passion level should be very, very high. If those two things are not there and I mean in a mutual way, this industry will be illusive and not promising for him more than likely. He must have the capacity to always work and get better not matter what his natural talent. Drive and consistency is very important in this industry.
I don't know where you live. I am in the LA area. So I am always around the best in the industry (except maybe London and NY.) But I do know it is important to start playing with others in the form of a band and one that practices together and does gigs. It would be best for him to involve himself with serious musicians that will be invested in regular practice and getting gigs. If he finds that the bands he is involved with are not into growing and being professional (which may take him some trial and error) he needs to continue to keep his ears and eyes out for bands that are. In the professional world true professional musicians are dedicated, hard working, professionals that rehearse and continue to do new stuff and offer great music. It takes time and consistency to get fans. So don't worry as much about that. That will come with time.
There are a few good schools out there the musicians institute in LA might be a great place for him when the time is right as a guitar player. Check out too to see if they might have some summer workshops etc he can be a part of. See how that goes.
Don't access his talent as much as you access the points I brought up above. Unless he is showing Jimmi Hendrix level playing right now what is really going to matter is his consistency, passion, drive, professionalism, willingness to learn from others that are talented and professional, as well as his long term investment in growing even though tough times (lack of validation & hard times financially.) The latter is where his passion for the craft is going to be the only thing sustaining him even if he seriously doubts he is any good if he doesn't get a lot of encouragement at times. Unfortunately it is a very, very tough business. But truthfully it is a HUGE reward. Huge!! I would say put it all in if he has what I mentioned above, but also let him know he may be doing other types of work for money along the way.
I love that he is also studying music theory.
My feedback is very pragmatic from an industry stand point. Be cautious of being scammed when you look at school etc. There a few great ones out there. But I would really recommend ones that accomplished musicians in the genres he is flourishing in attended. Such as the musicians institute, or Berkely School or Music, or North Texas. I also love that he is writing. Encourage him to take singing lessons as well as a guitar player that can harmonize is a HUGE bonus and WILL get hired if he is any good at playing or picked up quickly in a band. Who knows he could even end up his own front man. Keep supporting his growth in all these areas as they will all help him tremendously in the long run. Also encourage him to utilize programs such as Garageband. Record himself and listen back with a critical ear to try to improve on that level as well. Best of luck to you and let him know his dedicated hard work, drive to learn and improve, as well as his passion and consistency is gold in this industry and if he has natural talent on top of that he should be very proud of the groundwork he has laid and keep it up. It takes time and consistency.
Great advice to Dad & his son. You said it much better than I tried earlier. The difference in experience & perspective between an amateur (me) and a pro (you). Also recommended Musicians Institute for advice. Believe Nashville a good place to be, in addition to LA, NYC, or London. Perhaps not for more serious rock, but other contemporary forms...well beyond country now. He/they could find so many producers, artists/musicians, songwriters, coaches, music companies, performance venues. Also, I would encourage him/them to seek out members of The Players in Nashville or The Swampers in Muscle Shoals. They’re still at it doing recording sessions and producing young artists, and they’ve worked with a who’s who in music for decades.
Very good topic. Very good comments worth following.
I agree with GOP Poet. “His passion level should be very, very high.”
Here in Los Angeles a person “can make it” (ooh, ahh) with passion and sticking to practice. A “studio musician” is always needed around here for concerts, movie scores and recordings. The work is plentiful, the practice must be daily and the workers are usually cheerful.
Going to an expensive music school is suspicious.
Joining a local orchestra or jazz band is healthy.
And traveling with a rock group is stressful.
Taxcontrol, if he has your support, then your son can make it.