A capo, short for capotasto, is a device used on stringed instruments, particularly guitars. It clamps down on the strings at a specific fret, effectively raising the pitch of the instrument. This allows musicians to play in different keys without changing their finger positions for chords. Capos are popular among guitarists for their versatility and ease of use. They enable players to experiment with various sounds and make it easier to accompany singers who may prefer different vocal ranges. Using a capo can also simplify playing songs that are originally in complex keys.