Abstract: The present invention integrates multiple single fingerboard instrument structures together by means of a linkage into a composite multiple fingerboard musical instrument that dimensionally positions instrument fingerboards horizontally, vertically and angularly relative to each other as a means for providing the player with the most beneficial structural configuration for simultaneous engagement by the hands on separate fingerboards. A variety of novel structures, linkages, and fingerboard matrix arrays are presented.

Abstract: The string tensioning apparatus includes a string tensioning device to provide the mechanical string tension control function and associated control electronics to regulate the operation of the string tensioning device. The string tensioning device includes a bidirectional motor as the mechanical means to vary, control and maintain string tension. The associated string is directly connected to the motor shaft, whose rotation is regulated by the associated control electronics. A transducer is used to measure the frequency of operation of each string. The measured frequency is then compared to a value stored in memory to produce an indication of the difference between the actual and desired frequency of operation. This difference is then used to control the direction and amount of rotation of the motor shaft to bring the string frequency of operation into compliance with the stored frequency value.