Abstract: An improved fingerboard for a stringed instrument having a series of substantially planar raised surfaces, each surface having an edge disposed toward the nut of the instrument, a "fret edge". The fret edges are located at fret positions along the strings and may be provided by the attachment of fret blocks to the fingerboard. Between the raised surfaces are recessed surfaces which are at least partially inclined to verge upon the fret edges of the raised surfaces. Alternatively, the raised surfaces and recessed surfaces may be formed of a single monolithic member. The fingerboard is a modular unit which may be installed on the neck of the instrument or may comprise the neck of the instrument itself. Recessed surfaces may include indicator means to show the fret position of a proximate fret edge.