Abstract: A string instrument, such as a guitar, has a resonance body and a bridge provided with a string-contacting surface. A string-supporting element is provided on the body and a string-securing device is also provided on the body but is separate from and spaced from the bridge and has a second string-contacting surface. One or more sound openings are provided in the resonance body and surround a center region of the bridge. A string-deflecting element is also provided on the center region of the bridge spaced from and opposite the first string-contacting surface.