An improved system and method for connecting separate neck and body portions of a stringed musical instrument, preferably an electric guitar, are provided. The neck and body portions are connected together via a support bracket having multiple planes with screws, bolts or the like that are preferably located underneath a cover plate on the front side of the instrument. The instrument includes no other visible securing members, such that separate neck and body portions can be connected together while maintaining a one-piece aesthetic quality of the instrument.