Definition
A guitar capo is a clamp that presses all the strings against a chosen fret, raising the pitch of the guitar. Familiar open chord shapes then produce different sounding chords without requiring new fingerings.
For Beginners
Place the capo just behind the fret rather than directly on top of it, and use only enough pressure for the strings to ring cleanly. A G shape played with a capo at the second fret sounds as an A chord. Your fingering stays the same while the sounding key changes.
Why It Matters
A guitar capo lets you match a singer’s range, play along with recordings in less convenient keys, and keep the bright sound of open strings higher on the neck. It gives a beginner access to more keys before barre chords are comfortable.
Kalymi Tip
Retune after putting the capo on. A capo can pull some strings slightly sharp, especially if it clamps too hard or sits too far behind the fret.