Capo and solos

I think I understand that one thing a capo allows me to do is maintain the key of a song but use different cord shapes. (Easier chord shapes). But what I cant get straight in my head is if I learned a solo without the capo, does that change the fret locations I play the solo when I play it with the capo on?

example: If I play a solo with no capo and the solo starts on 6th fret, then want to solo over the same song with a capo on the 3rd fret. Do I move my starting solo note up 3 frets also? I think not because the "key" should be the same and the notes on a fretted string should be the same capo or not, but I not sure.

Thanks for the help.

Trey

It depends. You need more data to know.

If you are changing the key of the song, then yes, you need to adjust your solo accordingly.

So, to be clear, let's say you are playing the same chord shapes, but in 2 different fretboard locations. In this case, you need to play the solo higher. You transpose the same number of frets as your capo moves.

On the other hand, let's say you are using a capo, but different chords shapes in order to stay in the same key. Then the solo location stays the same.

Yes, the notes on the fretboard above the capo remain the same pitch with or without the capo. But, your scenario depends on whether or not you actually changed keys with your chords in the 2 different contexts (with & without capo).

Make sense?

Christopher Schlegel
Guitar Tricks Instructor
Christopher Schlegel Lesson Directory

Yes. Makes sense. Thank you. I'm solid on it now.

This was exactly the scenario I was trying to describe.

"On the other hand, let's say you are using a capo, but different chords shapes in order to stay in the same key. Then the solo location stays the same."

Thanks Christopher

Good deal! You're welcome. Have fun with that capo. :)

Christopher Schlegel
Guitar Tricks Instructor
Christopher Schlegel Lesson Directory

So just what do the seven replies immediately above this have to do with guitar?

I've just contacted GTAdmin about this shit.

Got em! Thanks for the heads up.

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please contact us.

Thanks, that was quick work!!!

A capo is a device that clamps down across the guitar's fingerboard at a particular fret. Capos shorten the length of all the strings at the same time, creating, in effect, a new nut. All the “open” strings now play in higher pitches than they do without the capo. www.krogerfeedback.com

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