Figuring out the optimum placement of frets on a stringed instrument, reminiscent of a guitar or bass, is essential for attaining correct intonation. This entails exact mathematical relationships between string size, desired pitch, and the position of frets alongside the fingerboard. A well-calculated fret placement ensures that every observe, when fretted, produces the meant pitch, leading to an instrument that performs in tune throughout its whole vary. For instance, the gap between the nut and the primary fret is bigger than the gap between the primary and second fret, and this sample continues alongside the neck, with progressively smaller distances between subsequent frets.
Correct fret placement is prime to the playability and musicality of stringed devices. With out it, chords would sound dissonant, and melodies can be out of tune. Traditionally, the event of those calculations represents a major development in instrument making, permitting for constant and dependable intonation throughout completely different devices. This mathematical precision contributes to the expressive potential and widespread enjoyment of music.
The next sections will delve into the particular mathematical formulation concerned, discover numerous strategies of calculation, and focus on the sensible implications for luthiers and musicians alike.
1. Scale Size
Scale size, the vibrating size of a string from nut to bridge, is a foundational parameter in fret placement calculations. It straight influences the spacing between frets and performs a essential function in figuring out the instrument’s intonation and total playability.
-
Mensuration and Pitch
The size size dictates the elemental frequency of a string at a given stress. Longer scales, with their elevated string size, produce decrease pitches for a similar string gauge and stress, whereas shorter scales produce increased pitches. This relationship is prime to understanding how fret placement interprets to particular notes and intervals.
-
Fret Spacing Ratios
Fret spacing is calculated utilizing the twelfth root of two, a continuing that divides the dimensions size into more and more smaller segments in direction of the bridge. The size size serves because the preliminary worth in these calculations, that means {that a} longer scale size leads to proportionally wider fret spacing, and vice-versa. This constant ratio ensures equal temperament tuning.
-
Instrument Design Concerns
The selection of scale size considerably impacts an instrument’s character. Longer scale lengths typically present better readability and separation between notes, most popular for devices like basses. Shorter scale lengths could make string bending simpler, favored in some guitars designed for particular taking part in types. The size size resolution is due to this fact a vital factor within the total design philosophy.
-
Intonation and Compensation
Whereas scale size determines the preliminary fret positions, additional changes are essential to accommodate string stretch and different components influencing intonation. The diploma of compensation, typically involving changes to the bridge placement or saddle place, is determined by the dimensions size and meant taking part in type. Longer scale lengths typically require much less compensation in comparison with shorter ones.
Understanding the affect of scale size is crucial for correct fret placement calculations. A exactly chosen scale size, mixed with cautious calculations and compensation, ensures an instrument performs in tune and affords the specified taking part in expertise. The interaction between these components determines the devices total efficiency and suitability for particular musical contexts.
2. Twelfth root of two
The twelfth root of two (roughly 1.059463) serves because the mathematical basis for calculating fret distances in Western music. This fixed derives from the precept of equal temperament, which divides the octave into twelve equal semitones. Multiplying the remaining string size from the nut to a given fret by the twelfth root of two calculates the place of the following fret. This course of, repeated alongside the fingerboard, produces the attribute logarithmic fret spacing sample. The twelfth root of two ensures that every semitone will increase in frequency by the identical ratio, creating constant intervals throughout the instrument’s vary. With out this fixed, correct intonation in equal temperament can be inconceivable. For instance, if the gap from the nut to the primary fret is 25.5mm on a guitar with a 648mm scale size, the gap from the nut to the second fret will probably be 25.5mm multiplied by the twelfth root of two, leading to an roughly 27.05mm distance.
The sensible significance of this mathematical precept lies in its potential to create devices able to taking part in in tune throughout numerous keys and musical contexts. Equal temperament, facilitated by the twelfth root of two, permits for seamless modulation between keys, a vital factor in a lot of Western music. Whereas different tuning techniques exist, equal temperament, and due to this fact the twelfth root of two, stays dominant because of its versatility and practicality. Understanding this relationship gives perception into the elemental construction of Western musical scales and the performance of fretted devices.
In abstract, the twelfth root of two shouldn’t be merely a mathematical abstraction however a vital factor within the design and performance of fretted devices. It underlies the equal temperament system, enabling constant intervals and seamless transitions between keys. This precept has formed the event of Western music and continues to be a cornerstone of musical instrument development. Understanding its function gives beneficial insights into the interaction between arithmetic, music concept, and the sensible craft of instrument making.
3. Compensation
Compensation addresses the inherent discrepancies between theoretical fret calculations and the precise physics of string vibration. Strings, significantly when fretted, stretch barely, inflicting the ensuing pitch to be sharper than the theoretical excellent. Compensation goals to mitigate these discrepancies, making certain correct intonation throughout the fretboard.
-
String Stiffness and Pressure
Thicker strings require extra pressure to stress and exhibit better stiffness, influencing the diploma of stretching and due to this fact the required compensation. Larger stress additionally will increase the quantity of stretch, requiring changes to compensate for the ensuing pitch deviations. As an example, a thicker E-string on a bass guitar would require completely different compensation in comparison with a thinner G-string, even on the identical instrument.
-
Scale Size Affect
Scale size influences the diploma of compensation required. Shorter scale lengths typically require extra compensation as a result of proportionally better impression of string stretch over a smaller distance. Conversely, longer scales typically require much less compensation. This relationship between scale size and compensation is essential for correct intonation throughout completely different instrument designs.
-
Fretting Drive Influence
The pressure utilized when fretting a string additional influences the stretching impact. Heavier fretting tends to sharpen the pitch greater than lighter fretting, requiring cautious consideration in compensation changes. Constant taking part in method turns into essential for attaining constant intonation, significantly on devices with much less refined compensation.
-
Compensation Strategies
Numerous strategies obtain compensation. Frequent strategies embrace adjusting saddle positions, totally on guitars, and incorporating compensated nuts. Every methodology goals to fine-tune the efficient string size at completely different fret positions, mitigating the impression of stretching. The selection of methodology is determined by the instrument’s design and the specified stage of precision. As an example, particular person saddle changes permit for exact compensation for every string, whereas a compensated nut affords a extra normal adjustment on the open strings.
Correct compensation is crucial for attaining correct fret effectivity. With out accounting for the bodily realities of string conduct, even meticulously calculated fret positions will lead to intonation inaccuracies. Correct compensation, tailor-made to the particular instrument and taking part in type, ensures that the instrument performs in tune throughout the fretboard, realizing the total potential of correct fret placement calculations.
4. String Gauge
String gauge, referring to the string’s diameter, considerably influences fret effectivity calculations and total instrument intonation. The interaction between string gauge, stress, and scale size dictates the diploma of compensation required for correct fretting. Thicker strings, beneath a given stress, exert better downward pressure on the fretboard, rising the efficient string size and sharpening the pitch. Conversely, thinner strings, beneath the identical stress, require much less compensation because of lowered downward pressure and minimal stretching. This relationship necessitates cautious consideration of string gauge throughout fret placement calculations and subsequent compensation changes.
For instance, take into account two an identical guitars, differing solely in string gauge. The guitar with lighter gauge strings would require much less compensation than the guitar with heavier gauge strings. This distinction arises from the elevated stress and stiffness of the heavier strings, necessitating better changes to take care of correct intonation. Equally, altering string gauges on a given instrument requires re-evaluating and doubtlessly adjusting compensation. Switching from lighter to heavier strings with out adjusting compensation will seemingly lead to sharper intonation throughout the fretboard, significantly at increased frets. Sensible functions of this understanding are essential for luthiers, guitar technicians, and musicians looking for optimum instrument setup.
In abstract, string gauge represents a essential parameter in optimizing fret effectivity. Its impression on string stress and stiffness necessitates exact compensation changes to counteract pitch discrepancies brought on by string stretching. A complete understanding of this relationship allows knowledgeable selections concerning string alternative, instrument setup, and the interaction between these components in attaining correct and constant intonation. Failing to account for string gauge in fret calculations and compensation can considerably compromise the instrument’s playability and musical potential. The refined but important affect of string gauge underscores the intricate relationship between bodily properties and musical accuracy in fretted devices.
5. Tuning System
Tuning techniques, defining the particular intervals between notes inside an octave, straight affect fret effectivity calculations. Completely different tuning techniques require distinct fret placements to attain correct intonation for the meant intervals. Whereas equal temperament, dividing the octave into twelve equal semitones, stays prevalent in Western music, exploring alternate tuning techniques reveals the nuanced relationship between musical concept, mathematical rules, and the bodily realities of fretted devices.
-
Equal Temperament
Equal temperament facilitates modulation between keys by making all semitones equal. This simplifies fret calculations, because the twelfth root of two constantly determines fret spacing. Fashionable Western music predominantly makes use of equal temperament, influencing instrument development and efficiency follow. As an example, a piano tuned to equal temperament can seamlessly transition between keys with out retuning.
-
Meantone Temperament
Meantone temperament prioritizes pure thirds, leading to barely completely different fret spacing in comparison with equal temperament. Sure intervals are purer, whereas others are extra dissonant, creating a definite sonic character favored in some historic efficiency practices. For instance, Renaissance music typically advantages from the pure thirds achieved by way of meantone temperament.
-
Simply Intonation
Simply intonation tunes intervals primarily based on easy mathematical ratios, leading to pure intervals particular to a given key. Fret calculations turn into extra complicated as fret spacing varies relying on the meant key. Whereas providing theoretically pure harmonies, simply intonation presents challenges for modulation. Traditionally, sure vocal and early instrumental music utilized simply intonation to maximise harmonic purity inside a particular key.
-
Pythagorean Tuning
Pythagorean tuning derives intervals from excellent fifths, resulting in particular intervallic relationships and tuning discrepancies, significantly with thirds. This technique, traditionally related for sure sorts of music, necessitates distinct fret placements to attain its attribute intervals. Early music and sure non-Western traditions make the most of Pythagorean tuning, reflecting completely different aesthetic priorities.
The chosen tuning system profoundly impacts fret calculations and the resultant musical potentialities. Equal temperament’s dominance simplifies instrument development and facilitates modulation, whereas alternate tunings provide distinctive sonic traits with implications for intonation and efficiency follow. Understanding these relationships gives insights into the historic improvement of music and the continued interaction between theoretical rules, sensible development strategies, and the evolving aesthetic preferences that form musical expression. The selection of tuning system influences not solely the sound of the instrument but additionally how it’s performed and what musical potentialities it affords.
6. Fret Materials
Fret materials choice considerably impacts fret effectivity, influencing not solely the instrument’s intonation and playability but additionally its longevity and total efficiency. The fabric’s hardness, sturdiness, and frictional properties work together with string vibration and participant interplay, necessitating cautious consideration inside the broader context of fret placement calculations.
-
Hardness and Sturdiness
Tougher supplies, like nickel-silver alloys or chrome steel, resist put on and deformation, sustaining exact fret shaping and constant intonation over time. Softer supplies, reminiscent of nickel, could put on extra shortly, doubtlessly affecting intonation and requiring extra frequent substitute. The selection between tougher and softer supplies entails a trade-off between longevity and taking part in really feel.
-
Friction and Playability
Decrease friction supplies facilitate smoother string bending and vibrato, enhancing playability. Larger friction supplies can impede string motion, doubtlessly affecting taking part in method and expressiveness. This steadiness between friction and playability is essential in deciding on fret materials acceptable for particular musical types and taking part in preferences.
-
Influence on String Vibration
Fret materials density and stiffness affect string vibration, subtly affecting tone and maintain. Denser supplies can contribute to a brighter tone, whereas much less dense supplies could provide a hotter sound. These refined variations, whereas typically subjective, can affect the general sonic character of the instrument.
-
Corrosion Resistance
Sure supplies, like chrome steel, provide superior corrosion resistance, extending fret lifespan and sustaining constant efficiency in numerous environments. Different supplies, like nickel-silver, could require extra care to forestall corrosion, significantly in humid climates. The selection of fabric ought to take into account the meant taking part in setting and upkeep necessities.
Cautious fret materials choice, knowledgeable by an understanding of its impression on playability, intonation, and longevity, contributes considerably to total fret effectivity. The chosen materials interacts straight with the exactly calculated fret positions, influencing the instrument’s response and the musician’s potential to comprehend the meant musical expression. The refined but important results of fret materials spotlight the interconnectedness of varied design parts in attaining a well-crafted and responsive instrument. Optimizing fret materials alternative ensures that the calculated fret positions translate successfully into correct intonation, snug playability, and long-lasting efficiency.
7. Measurement Precision
Measurement precision performs a vital function in fret effectivity calculations. Correct fret placement depends on exact measurements of the dimensions size and subsequent fret distances. Minute discrepancies in measurement can compound throughout the fretboard, resulting in noticeable intonation inaccuracies. The extent of precision required is determined by the instrument’s scale size and the specified tuning accuracy. As an example, a measurement error of even 0.5mm can considerably impression intonation on a shorter-scale instrument like a ukulele, whereas the identical error could be much less noticeable on a longer-scale bass guitar. Using exact measuring instruments, reminiscent of calibrated digital calipers or rulers with effective graduations, is crucial for attaining correct fret placement. Moreover, constant measurement strategies, together with correct placement of the measuring instrument and accounting for components like string gauge and nut peak, contribute to total accuracy. Errors in measurement translate on to compromised intonation, hindering the instrument’s musical potential. A sensible understanding of measurement precision and its impression on fret calculations is crucial for luthiers, instrument technicians, and anybody concerned in instrument setup and upkeep.
The sensible implications of measurement precision lengthen past preliminary fret placement. Subsequent changes, reminiscent of compensation, additionally depend on correct measurements to fine-tune intonation. Inaccurate measurements throughout the compensation course of can exacerbate current intonation issues or introduce new ones. For instance, an improperly measured saddle adjustment may end up in uneven intonation throughout the strings, hindering playability and musical expression. Furthermore, exact measurements are important for diagnosing and correcting intonation points on current devices. Figuring out the supply of intonation issues typically requires meticulous measurements to pinpoint discrepancies between precise fret positions and the theoretical excellent. With out correct measurements, makes an attempt at corrective changes could also be ineffective and even counterproductive.
In conclusion, measurement precision varieties a cornerstone of fret effectivity calculations. From preliminary fret placement to subsequent changes and troubleshooting, correct measurements make sure the calculated fret positions translate into correct intonation and optimum playability. The results of imprecise measurements can vary from refined intonation discrepancies to important playability points, hindering the instrument’s musical potential. A radical understanding of measurement precision and its sensible software is crucial for attaining and sustaining correct fret effectivity, making certain the instrument performs as meant and facilitates correct musical expression. The pursuit of exact measurement represents not merely a technical element however a basic dedication to the accuracy and integrity of the instrument’s musical perform.
8. Tooling Accuracy
Tooling accuracy straight impacts the sensible realization of fret effectivity calculations. Exact calculations are rendered ineffective if the instruments used to implement them lack the required precision. Fret slotting saws, presses, and different instruments utilized in fret set up should possess enough accuracy to make sure fret placement conforms to the calculated positions. Inaccurate tooling can introduce errors that negate the advantages of exact calculations, resulting in compromised intonation and playability. For instance, a noticed blade with extreme kerf or a press that applies uneven strain may end up in frets being positioned inaccurately, even when the calculated positions are appropriate. The results can vary from minor intonation discrepancies to important playability points, highlighting the essential function of tooling accuracy in attaining optimum fret effectivity.
The connection between tooling accuracy and fret effectivity calculations extends past the preliminary fret set up. Subsequent processes, reminiscent of fret leveling, crowning, and dressing, additionally depend on exact instruments to attain optimum outcomes. Uneven leveling, improper crowning, or inconsistent dressing can introduce additional intonation issues and negatively impression playability. As an example, a poorly leveled fret may cause buzzing or useless notes, whereas an improperly topped fret could make string bending troublesome and have an effect on intonation. Sustaining tooling accuracy all through the fretting course of ensures that every step contributes to the general objective of exact and environment friendly fret placement, maximizing the instrument’s musical potential.
In abstract, tooling accuracy represents a essential hyperlink between theoretical calculations and sensible implementation in attaining optimum fret effectivity. Exact calculations are solely nearly as good because the instruments used to comprehend them. Sustaining tooling accuracy all through the fretting course of, from preliminary slotting to ultimate dressing, ensures that the calculated fret positions translate into correct intonation and optimum playability. Investing in high-quality instruments and sustaining their precision by way of correct care and utilization represents a basic dedication to the craft of instrument making and the pursuit of musical excellence. Ignoring the significance of tooling accuracy can compromise even probably the most meticulously deliberate fret calculations, hindering the instrument’s potential to meet its musical objective.
9. Temperament
Temperament, the system of tuning intervals in music, basically influences fret effectivity calculations. Completely different temperaments dictate particular intervallic relationships, which straight translate into the exact placement of frets alongside the fingerboard. Understanding the interaction between temperament and fret calculations is essential for attaining correct intonation and realizing the specified musical traits of the instrument.
-
Equal Temperament
Equal temperament, the prevailing system in Western music, divides the octave into twelve equal semitones. This technique permits for seamless modulation between keys, a cornerstone of a lot Western musical follow. By way of fret effectivity calculations, equal temperament simplifies the method, as fret spacing follows a constant logarithmic sample primarily based on the twelfth root of two. This mathematical regularity makes equal temperament sensible for instrument development and facilitates constant efficiency throughout completely different keys.
-
Meantone Temperament
Meantone temperament prioritizes pure thirds, leading to completely different intervallic relationships and, consequently, completely different fret spacing in comparison with equal temperament. Traditionally prevalent earlier than the widespread adoption of equal temperament, meantone tuning affords distinct sonic traits, with some intervals perceived as purer whereas others exhibit better dissonance. Calculating fret positions for meantone temperament requires completely different mathematical ratios and produces a fretboard format that deviates from the equal temperament customary. Devices tuned to meantone temperament typically excel in particular keys however can current challenges for modulation to distant keys.
-
Simply Intonation
Simply intonation derives intervals from easy mathematical ratios, leading to theoretically pure harmonies inside a given key. Nevertheless, these pure intervals are particular to the important thing, and modulating to different keys introduces discrepancies. Fret calculations for simply intonation turn into complicated, requiring changes primarily based on the meant key and desired intervallic relationships. Traditionally related for sure vocal and early instrumental music, simply intonation necessitates a specialised strategy to stress placement that differs considerably from equal or meantone temperament.
-
Pythagorean Tuning
Pythagorean tuning, primarily based on excellent fifths, produces particular intervallic traits distinct from different tuning techniques. This technique, related to early music and sure non-Western musical traditions, generates distinctive intervallic relationships and inherent tuning discrepancies, particularly concerning thirds. Calculating fret positions for Pythagorean tuning requires a definite strategy reflecting the particular intervals produced by this technique. Devices using Pythagorean tuning exhibit distinctive sonic qualities reflective of the mathematical ratios underpinning this technique.
The selection of temperament considerably influences fret calculations and straight impacts the instrument’s intonation, playability, and total musical character. Whereas equal temperament dominates up to date Western music because of its versatility and ease of modulation, exploring alternate temperaments gives beneficial insights into the various relationships between musical concept, mathematical rules, and the bodily development of devices. Every temperament presents distinctive challenges and alternatives for fret effectivity calculations, highlighting the interconnectedness of tuning techniques and the sensible craft of instrument making. The selection of temperament finally shapes the instrument’s sonic id and dictates the mathematical framework for optimizing fret placement.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions
This part addresses frequent inquiries concerning fret placement calculations, clarifying key ideas and dispelling potential misconceptions.
Query 1: How does scale size affect fret spacing?
Scale size, the vibrating size of the string, straight determines fret spacing. Longer scales lead to wider fret spacing, whereas shorter scales produce narrower spacing. This relationship is prime to the instrument’s intonation and taking part in traits.
Query 2: Why is the twelfth root of two necessary for fret calculations?
The twelfth root of two (roughly 1.059463) is the mathematical fixed used to divide the octave into twelve equal semitones in equal temperament. This fixed ensures that every fret raises the pitch by one semitone, creating constant intervals throughout the fretboard.
Query 3: What’s compensation, and why is it essential?
Compensation accounts for the slight stretching of strings when fretted. This stretching sharpens the pitch, and compensation, typically by way of changes on the bridge or nut, corrects these discrepancies to take care of correct intonation.
Query 4: How does string gauge have an effect on fret calculations?
String gauge impacts string stress and stiffness. Heavier gauge strings require extra compensation because of elevated stretching when fretted, whereas lighter gauge strings require much less.
Query 5: Do completely different tuning techniques require completely different fret placements?
Sure, completely different tuning techniques, reminiscent of meantone, simply intonation, or Pythagorean tuning, require distinct fret placements to attain the specified intervallic relationships. These techniques deviate from the equal temperament customary, necessitating particular calculations for correct intonation inside the chosen tuning system.
Query 6: How does fret materials impression total fret effectivity?
Fret materials influences intonation, playability, and longevity. Tougher supplies provide better sturdiness and put on resistance, whereas softer supplies could present a smoother taking part in really feel. The fabric’s impression on string vibration additionally subtly impacts tone and maintain.
Understanding these basic ideas enhances one’s appreciation for the precision and complexity concerned in attaining correct fret placement and optimum instrument intonation. Cautious consideration of those components ensures that theoretical calculations translate successfully right into a well-playing instrument.
The following sections will delve additional into sensible functions of fret calculations, providing insights into instrument setup, upkeep, and optimization strategies.
Optimizing Fret Placement
Reaching optimum fret placement requires cautious consideration to element and a radical understanding of the underlying rules. The next suggestions provide sensible steering for maximizing fret effectivity and making certain correct intonation.
Tip 1: Exact Scale Size Measurement: Correct scale size measurement varieties the inspiration of all subsequent calculations. Make the most of a precision measuring instrument, reminiscent of digital calipers, and guarantee constant measurement method. Inaccurate scale size measurement will propagate errors all through the fretboard, compromising intonation.
Tip 2: Confirm Twelfth Root of Two Calculations: Double-checking calculations involving the twelfth root of two minimizes the danger of compounding errors. Make use of a calculator with enough precision and confirm outcomes towards established fret spacing charts or on-line calculators.
Tip 3: Take into account Compensation Early within the Design Course of: Incorporate compensation concerns from the preliminary design phases. Consider string gauge, scale size, and taking part in type to find out the suitable compensation methodology and anticipated changes. Retrofitting compensation will be extra complicated and fewer efficient.
Tip 4: String Gauge Choice and Adjustment: Perceive the interaction between string gauge, stress, and compensation. Altering string gauges necessitates reevaluating and doubtlessly adjusting compensation to take care of correct intonation. Thicker strings usually require extra compensation than thinner strings.
Tip 5: Tooling Accuracy and Upkeep: Put money into high-quality fretting instruments and preserve their accuracy by way of correct care and utilization. Inaccurate instruments can introduce errors that negate the advantages of exact calculations. Commonly examine and preserve instruments like fret saws, presses, and leveling information to make sure constant efficiency.
Tip 6: Fret Materials Choice for Optimum Efficiency: Select fret materials primarily based on desired taking part in traits, sturdiness necessities, and tonal concerns. Tougher supplies provide better put on resistance, whereas softer supplies could present a smoother really feel. The fabric’s impression on string vibration can even subtly affect the instrument’s tone.
Tip 7: Meticulous Fret Leveling, Crowning, and Dressing: Exact fretwork following set up is crucial for optimum playability and intonation. Guarantee constant fret peak and correct crown form to attenuate buzzing and guarantee clean string bending. Inconsistent fretwork can negate the advantages of correct fret placement calculations.
Adhering to those suggestions ensures that calculated fret positions translate right into a well-intonated and playable instrument. Consideration to element and a radical understanding of the underlying rules contribute considerably to profitable fretwork and total instrument efficiency.
The next conclusion synthesizes the important thing takeaways and emphasizes the significance of correct fret placement in attaining musical excellence.
Conclusion
Correct fret placement, achieved by way of meticulous calculation and exact execution, varieties the inspiration of correct intonation in fretted devices. This intricate course of, involving mathematical rules, bodily concerns, and expert craftsmanship, straight impacts the instrument’s musical potential. From the foundational scale size measurement to the nuanced number of fret materials, every factor contributes to the general effectivity and accuracy of fret placement. String gauge, compensation strategies, tooling accuracy, and the chosen temperament additional affect the ultimate consequence, underscoring the interconnectedness of those numerous components. The pursuit of optimum fret effectivity represents a dedication to musical precision, enabling the instrument to meet its meant objective as a car for correct and expressive musical efficiency.
The continuing refinement of fret placement calculations and strategies continues to boost the playability and musicality of stringed devices. Additional exploration of alternate temperaments, progressive supplies, and superior tooling guarantees continued developments in instrument design and development. A deeper understanding of the underlying rules governing fret effectivity empowers luthiers, technicians, and musicians alike to unlock the total expressive potential of those devices. The search for excellent intonation stays a driving pressure within the evolution of musical instrument expertise, making certain that the devices of tomorrow proceed to encourage and empower musical expression.