Most schools for music degrees have piano/keyboard classes in different categories. Whether is conserv/uni-college/or community colleges even
Not a part of admission and there is usually no entrance exam unless you want to test out of something.
usually there is keyboard for beginners/non-pianists, one for pianists, and other categories depending on the school.
I’m not saying piano is easy(I’m a violinist and I find piano to be quite challenging because the motions are too symmetrical in comparison to string motions)-- but usually classes for non-piano-majors don’t ask of anything too too difficult.
It’s definitely great if he has some experience with piano because of how helpful the instrument is-- reading clef signs quickly with both clefs and having basic technical understanding (hand position/how to play piano mechanics-wise) will give him enough of a headstart.
Regarding your question about school orchestras: if the orchestra at school has good funding and investment from the district-- there may be opportunities such as festivals, masterclasses, honor society clubs and other activities that go beyond playing 50-75 minutes in a classroom. Although the music is not as complex as youth orchestras because most orchestras try to accommodate a larger range of skills in their rep: I always felt that it did so much more for my perspective and appreciation for music. If he ever has the time to take school orchestra for one year; it’s a nice thing to try for sure. But if it’s not within his schedule for the rest of his pre-college experience, then don’t worry about it! I did youth orchestra from middle school 7th grade allt he way to my sophomore year of hs-- but had done school orchestra at the same time from 6th grade alllll the way to 12. I honestly stopped youth orchestra once I felt like I had brushed through some great iconic orchestra rep and then stepped into just school orchestras because I found more stuff to do there than just clock in once a week only for like- three hours and not knowing a single soul in the ensemble with everyone coming in from everywhere.
Bonus points if there’s an auditioned group option at the school orchestra programs: usually school auditioned groups is a good way to marry youth orchestra program rep intensity and school orchestra spirit.
I ended up majoring in music and I’m currently pursuing a degree in performance-- I definitely think as long as ur kid is enrolled in any orchestra or has any orchestra experience school or outside school: its good enough for sure! I know a lot of peers at my uni (that’s pretty competitive)-- did both, one one of those-- and everyone ends up alright!