Note free framework (4)
I believe the answer is:
grid
'framework' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
'note free' is the wordplay.
'note' becomes 'g' (musical note).
'free' becomes 'rid' ('rid' can be a synonym of 'free'**).
'g'+'rid'='GRID'
(Other definitions for grid that I've seen before include "Map reference system" , "Source of power" , "Bars used to make one" , "Power distribution network" , "Network of spaced lines" .)