I was recently asked if there is a version of the Flexi-Capo which fits instruments with narrower necks, like banjos, ukeleles and mandolins.

Well, to my knowledge there are none - or at least none so far. The makers of Spider Capo, a competitor product from the US, do produce a "Mini" model for such instruments and they also have a special wide "XXX" version for 6-string basses and 7/8-string guitars, however they appear to be quite expensive compared to the Flexi-Capo.

Just in case you are wondering if it would be possible to cut off a piece of the metal shaft which holds the fingers and then just use say, four fingers instead of six, I should warn you that the threaded part of the shaft does not extend throughout its length so if you try it you may just render your Flexi-Capo useless. That is not to say a person with engineering skills couldn't do the job for you!

Have fun. 

Recently a pupil told me he was having back problems which he put down to the traditional footstool. I think this can particularly be an issue with newcomers to classical guitar playing when, coupled with other technical considerations, tension can easily be introduced which can make the whole playing experience uncomfortable.

Fortunately there are alternatives to footstools which allow the instrument to be played with both feet on the floor, as it were, thereby setting up a more natural seating position which should eliminate much of the tension created when using a footstool. Almost all of them attach to the side of the guitar with suction cups and straddle the left leg (for right-handed players), maintaining a correct holding position.

Probably the most popular model is the Ergoplay Gitano Professional model support but there are variations available including the Tappert and the more adjustable Troster models.

(to see an Ergoplay support in use visit: http://youtu.be/MVfFhcfnJec 
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