Hearing Scales/modes on the fly

[Fergs]

I know the theory well enough
I know and understand scales and modes.
D Major is: D E F# G A B C# D
D Mixolydian is: D E F# G A B C D

So Mixolydian differs from Major by having the 7th note flattened, or to view it another way D Mixolydian contains the same notes as G Major but the tonic is D, so therefore the chords derived from these two scales (G Major and D Mixolydian) would be the same

However what is the best way to develop my ear so I can hear this on the fly.
Is it to constantly practice scales until it clicks ?

[POB]

I'd say that practicing scales is a very good thing (especially in conjunction with a metronome) but it's equally important to learn tunes that use those scales/modes. Everything theoretical is easier to learn if you have soemthing practical to hang it on. So, practice your D mixolydian scale and learn D mixolydian tunes like The Colliers. Then, if you're so inclined, try concoct melodic variations / countermelodies / harmonies based on the notes in D mixolydian.

Another thing to remember is that while Irish music is largely modal in structure, a given tune is likely to slip from one mode to another, or at least have notes that are accidental to the prevailing mode of the tune. Many tunes that are classed as G mixolydian, for example, would have some F# notes in there too, often as passing notes or as part of an ornament.

Then there's the issue of fiddlers, pipers and the like being able to play notes that are somewhere between the natural and the sharp (sometimes referred to as "supernaturals"). That's not something you would need to be trying to emulate in your own playing but is something to be aware of if you're listening to a tune that just doesn't seem to be sitting in with whatever mode it "should" be in.

Lastly, always be wary of relying on other musicians at a session to tell you what scale or mode a tune is in. The majority don't really think too deeply about this kind of thing and just get on with the business of playing, so you're likely to get all sorts of conflicting answers. Reminds me of a bouzouki-wielding friend of mine who was once asked what chord he had played in a particular measure of a tune. He replied that it was an October 7th.

[Fergs]

Thanks Padraig

[steve V. johnson]

I struggled and struggled til I had the chance to get to just play one-on-one with some fiddlers who knew a lot of Irish tunes, and by hearing the tunes in that context (out of the excitement of a session), and to be able to ask questions and talk about the tunes, I got a lot more comfortable with identifying the modes and keys 'on the fly'.

I hope this helps..

stv