punkfolkrocker, I think you've hit it on the head. Thanks, all, for your observations--I'll have him read through this thread this evening. The goal for both of us is to have him enjoy music, but the goal of starting out in a way that cultivates the skills to do what he really wants, that's his mother speaking.

Finding the teacher is my next goal. I'll call around and find out what the options are. There are various music stores in the area, the one I have in mind is old and well established. They should have some recommendations. Plus, I work at a university with a good music department where I might find some suggestions.

SRS