<HTML>In a message dated 12/5/01 8:39:50 AM Central Standard Time, RADKINS@coe.edu writes: <BLOCKQUOTE TYPE=CITE style="BORDER-LEFT: #0000ff 2px solid; MARGIN-LEFT: 5px; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 5px">Wm, I'm sure you are aware of the Steinway leasing program. Working with the local dealer, you can have your inventory of pianos analyzed free.</BLOCKQUOTE> Richard, et all. Yes, I am aware of that program, and yes, we are working with the local Steinway dealer. That is why I asked the question. I am working up two proposals. One where get all new D's, B's and Boston studios, and trade in the pianos we have. The other is we rebuild almost all of our grands, buy new Boston grands where needed and trade in all the studios. My main concern are the 1970's B's and D's we have. I heard that pianos made in this period were not the greatest. Before I spend money rebuilding them, are they going to turn out all right? As one person said, perhaps getting new ones takes the "fear" factor out of it. No one will blame me if the piano didn't turn out right. On the other hand, it will save about $150,000. That's a lot of money these days. Our schools has the same problem as everyone else. Budgets are being cut. We just had a donor give us money for a new B. But I don't know if there is more money available in the near future. Thanks to all of you who replied. I am giving all of your comments (without your names) to the chair. Wim </HTML>