Josie, you have gotten some very good advice already so all I will do is to add my two cents to the conversation.

Although Macs are great computers I would suggest he get, if he already doesn't have a computer, a PC as they cost a lot less. As Herb has pointed out a laptop for around $200, a DAW for around $50 (note there are some free ones out there that look fairly decent), and add some head phones say around $25-100 range and he is all set to rock and roll. As you said he already has a mike and amp. On the PC side there are also some inexpensive and/or free guitar amp simulators, guitar and vocal effects as well as mastering effects, i.e. compressors, EQs etc. If he gets a Tascam now he will eventually have to move to a computer.

One thing for sure, IMHO, I would not drop a lot of money on an 11 year old's dream right now. That dream could change anytime time. My kid's career choices changed many times prior to graduating from high school!

One last thing if he really wants to go to music school have him start piano lessons right now. Piano is the most important instrument to have under your belt when if you plan on going to music school.

I hope this helps and good luck.

I got myself a seniors' GPS. Not only does it tell me how to get to my destination , it tells me why I wanted to go there.

64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware