A stringed musical instrument includes a string mounting arrangement that enables multiple strings to be maintained in relative tune as the pitch of the strings is simultaneously varied. In one embodiment, a composite musical string comprises multiple segments, each segment having a different density, but the composite string will maintain substantially the same tension throughout its length. As the tension is increased or decreased, the pitch of the instrument changes, but the relative tuning between the strings remains. In another embodiment, a composite string comprises musical string segments joined end-to-end with bending segments. The musical segments are adapted to emit desired notes and tones at tension. The bending segments are adapted to easily bend about pivots such as a tuning knob or pulley.