Lecture on Using a Capo and Key Changes in Guitar

Introduction

• Speaker: David Potts with SongNotes
• Purpose: Answer listener question about capo use and chord/key changes.
• Question Example: Heart of Gold by Neil Young
  • Partner plays harmonica
  • Use of capo on the first fret to assist vocal range adjustments.

Key Concepts

• Key in Guitar:
  • Refers to the diatonic chords constructed from a major scale.
  • Example: Key of G includes G, A minor, B minor, C, D, E minor, F# diminished.

Capo and Pitch

• Capo Use:
  • Raises pitch of chords by half-step increments per fret.
  • Impacts perceived key of music.

Example Explanation

• G Chord with Capo on 3rd Fret:
  • Start: G
  • Move up three half-steps: G → G# → A → A# (B♭)
  • Resulting sound: B♭ major to the ear.
  • Everyday guitarist may still refer to it as key of G with capo.

Formula for Capo Changes

• Chord Family & Capo:
  • Define chord shape (e.g., G chord family)
  • Capo position increases pitch by half-steps.

Example with C Chord

• C Chord with Capo on 2nd Fret:
  • Start: C
  • Move up two half-steps: C → C# → D
  • Resulting sound: D chord to the ear.

Practical Applications

• PDF Available:
  • Shows common keys and capo positions.
  • Helps identify actual key being played.

Specific Songs

• Heart of Gold:

  • Key of G with capo on first fret becomes G#.
  • Suggestion: Use capo on second fret to shift to A, easier for harmonica.

• Knocking on Heaven’s Door:

  • Same principles apply; consider capo adjustments for vocal range.

Advanced Case: Playing in Fixed Key

• Example: E♭ Key
  • Not friendly for guitar (bar chords)
  • Use capo to change chord family for easier playability.
  • Capo up means chord family down: e.g., E♭ → D → C (capo 3rd fret)

Additional Resources

• Practical Music Theory Course: Detailed explanation of notes and key adjustments.
• SongNotes Membership: Access to courses, instructional PDFs, and discounts on song sheets.
• Community Forum: Platform for questions and learning from others.

Conclusion

• Encouragement: Apply capo techniques to expand playability and adjust for collaboration with other musicians.
• Contact Information: Further questions can be directed to Song Notes website or community forum.