Quote:
Originally Posted by morningside
So here's my question:
How do you handle these half-step key changes? Do you play full barre chords? Modified or "partial" barre chords? Quickly move the capo up or down a fret? Play the song in a single key?
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So here's my answer: Yes!
As you get more comfortable playing barre chords, they will sound better. They'll never sound quite the same as an open-string voicing, but that can't be avoided if you want to modulate to certain keys. You can also learn what could be called "partial" voicings, played with your fingers muting what would be open strings, so the chord form can be played anywhere on the neck.
Moving a capo is less common, but as you noted you can do it. It can be done pretty quickly with practice, depending on the style of capo (a clamp-type, like the Kyser, makes it fairly easy).
Of course, it's always an option to skip the key change entirely if your bandmates agree (or you're solo).