Restringing a Mandolin Harp is rather hard

For the last couple weeks I've been trying to restring my mandolin harp (also called Fretless Zither). In my next recordings this instrument will be a central focus, so I'm trying to get it in tip-top shape.
One major obstacle: Mandolin Harp strings do not exist since Mandolin Harps are no longer being built (and haven't been for quite some time). So I've been forced to mix and match guitar, auto-harp and other miscellaneous strings to get this thing sounding great. I've even considered using piano wire at times.
 It's a good thing I have no social life right now because this is taking up a great deal of time and effort, not to mention money. When I am finished stringing the Mandolin Harp, I'll be an authority on the subject.

Show with Hammell on Trial- my only solo show for several months so check it.

I am one of 3 opening acts for Hammell on Trial at the Lost Horizon in Syracuse, NY. Hammell on Trial
Friday, June 24, 2011 @ 8 pm.
http://www.thelosthorizon.com/events/hamell-on-trial-2/

I will be playing some never before heard or seen music. Consider this show a sneak preview.

Ben

Gil Scott Heron

I just learned that he passed away May 27th. I saw him perform live just last year, and he was phenomenal. To my ears, he stole the show at the Syracuse Jazz Fest. The guy came out and jammed solo on a Fender Rhodes Organ, and he had one of those gravelly blues voices that helped me recall a past that I didn't live through. I can honestly say that he was one of the coolest and most humble performers I've ever seen. Hats off to a master.