keyfretted

keyfretted is a term used to describe musical instruments that have frets on their fingerboard. Frets are the metal strips that divide the fingerboard into specific pitches. When a string is pressed down behind a fret, its vibrating length is shortened, producing a higher note. This system allows for precise intonation and makes it easier for musicians to play in tune.

Instruments commonly featuring keyfretted fingerboards include guitars, banjos, mandolins, and ukuleles. The presence of frets simplifies the process of learning and playing musical scales and chords accurately. In contrast, fretless instruments, such as violins or cellos, require the player to develop a precise sense of pitch to place their fingers correctly on the fingerboard.

The spacing and material of frets can vary between instruments, influencing their tone and playability. For example, thicker frets might offer a brighter sound and allow for easier string bending, while thinner frets may produce a warmer tone. The material used, commonly nickel-silver or stainless steel, can also affect durability and feel. The concept of fretting has been present in various forms across different cultures and historical periods, evolving with the development of stringed instruments.