A capo is an instrument used by many guitarists to instantly change the pitch of the guitar. It is a fundamental element among the tools of a guitarist and for this reason it is important to learn how to use it. Due to its compactness and simplicity, many guitarists always carry it with them. Using one is great when trying to find the key of a song for a given vocal range, or for key between songs (or even during the same song) without sacrificing tuning.
Steps
Step 1. Choose a nut
There are different types, but they are all based on the same elementary function: pressing the strings in a certain point of the neck to raise the pitch. This can be done via a pincer mechanism (such as a clothespin) or a stop gear. Collet nuts are the most commonly used and tend to be the longest-lived and most effective.
- When choosing a nut, make sure the product does not have any sharp or protruding parts that could damage the guitar neck.
- Make sure that the one you want to buy has a resistant and at the same time flexible material (for example rubber) as the coating of all those parts that will exert pressure on the neck and strings. Rigid materials can damage the guitar.
Step 2. Tune the guitar
Before placing the nut on the neck, it is advisable to tune it precisely. Some necks do not allow perfect tuning on all frets, and some nut frets may exert excessive pressure on the strings, resulting in a slightly rising note. Starting with a perfectly tuned guitar will minimize the problem of these dissonances.
Step 3. Apply the nut on the desired fret
Position it perfectly behind the key, rather than between keys. The nut should be as close to the fret as possible without touching it; this is to ensure that tuning problems are minimized.
Step 4. Play the guitar in the key you just transposed
The nut will immediately change the pitch in its open position. For example, playing a C major chord open with the nut on the first fret, the chord will become C # major. If the nut is on the second fret, the chord will become a D major. These quick transpositions allow you to quickly adjust the key of a piece (for example, to fit the vocal range of a singer) without having to play the chord in different positions and shapes.
Step 5. Experience all the possibilities a nut can offer you
In addition to allowing adaptation to a certain vocal range, the nut offers other opportunities. In case you were playing in an orchestra, you can use the nut to get musical keys more suited to the guitar. For example, the key of B b major is commonly used for wind instruments, but has very few open chords for guitar. Solve the problem by placing the nut on the first fret.
