In regard to John Tuttle's article in 101015 MMDigest, we have an
almost identical problem at our dumps, also now called recycle centres.
They charge by the kilo and the cost to dump a piano is over $75.

Yes, it must be broken into small pieces and placed in the appropriate
bins, including the iron plate.  I have managed to negate this cost
by giving the timbers and woodwork to a friend who is a carpenter;
he makes small furniture items and other nick nacks out of the wood.

The iron plate can be picked up by scrap metal dealers, at no cost,
as long as it is broken up.  I usually keep all the screws, linkages,
controls, etc., but there is a limit to how much junk I can store in
my workshop...

Paul Brennan
Australia