Chapter IX

Geometry of the Guitar Neck and the CAGED System

Movable shapes, root mapping and the link to harmonic function

13.1 The System of Movable Shapes (CAGED)

Unlike the keyboard, where the chromatic scale unfolds in a strictly linear way, the guitar presents a complex, multidirectional geometry.

13.2 Spatial Visualization: Mapping the Roots on the 6 Strings

To apply the CAGED system quickly, the musician must memorise the location of the root notes on the three lowest strings of the instrument (6th, 5th and 4th strings).