Another vote against reusing old strings - ultimately going to cost you more over the long haul. I know Chicago is a different market from yours, but you might want to explore and see if another institution or individual might have a suitable piano replacement. Over the past 3 years I've seen some amazing things offered here. In one case, it was Baldwin SD10 for $1,500 - and in better than decent shape - but they needed it out - IMMEDIATELY. I thought wrong thoughts for a moment. In another instance, someone literally offered two Steinway Ds for free - allegedly - but who knows - in useable condition. Still, you might want to put the word out to techs in the community if there's an older philanthropist who might have a suitable instrument that could be used. You could either keep the current D until you have funds to do more work - or sell it to someone who could restore it to its old glory. When I'm no longer able, I would like to donate my piano to someone with talent but without funds - and even provide some funds to maintain just to see it have a happy home. Of course, that assumes that our current President doesn't ruin the economy - and we have to trade the piano for eggs.
