I appreciate all of the conversation on this topic from both sides
of the range of opinions.   Speaking on behalf of my organization,
the Music House Museum in Acme, Michigan, there is a responsibility
on the part of the organization that is being offered the donation(s)
to be honest as to what its needs are and the probable outcome and
fate of the donated collection (or parts of it).

As a public museum with limited space and funding, we have a defined
acquisition strategy.  We selectively accept donations based on that
strategic plan.  The Music House is up-front to the prospective donor
if the collection (or parts of it) does not fit into our plan.  We
frankly  discuss the probable sale of those items that are not useful.

We, more often than not, provide direction to the donor as to other
organizations, individuals or means of disposal.   Editorially, we
believe it is important to keep these instruments being heard to foster
public appreciation of them and their art.  It does that purpose little
good if they are not played or just are moldering away in storage and
never brought out to be seen or heard.

Don't write off donating your collection to an institution, but check
it out before donating it and ask hard questions about your donations
fate.  If an individual collector is the best for the instrument's
disposition, we don't oppose that either.

Bruce A. Ahlich - Collections Chairman
Music House Museum
Acme, Michigan
http://musichouse.org/