<p>Naturalmom,</p>
<p>Don’t panic. Not every piano player has been practicing diligently since he was four.</p>
<p>Your son is playing beginner piano music. That doesn’t mean he can’t improve. He should continue practicing daily and try to add more challenging music to his repertoire. If he works hard and has an aptitude for music he will have a good chance at a conservatory.</p>
<p>That being said, a conservatory is not necessarily the best place for a budding musician. Look at small private or state schools as well.</p>
<p>There are often amazing teachers at smaller private or state universities. These schools may have more financial aid than a conservatory could (or is willing to) provide. The U of Maryland, for example, has what I consider an extremely strong piano department, less competition, and great financial aid. Conservatories are generally not very good with financial aid.</p>
<p>It may help if you told us what state you live in.</p>