What is the correct way to name a key for a given mode

[eschrank]

Just finished the modal dvd. Great info, solved many mysteries for me! My question: When we make our charts for our band, we put the key at the top of the page. I now know that a song like The Way by Fastball, is in the key of A, F# mixolodian. What do I put at the top of the chart? Key of A? F# mixolodian? What is the correct terminology here? thanks!

[DesiSerna]

Great question. Unfortunately, there is no universally agreed upon way to do it. You'll just have to come up with something that makes sense to everybody. Most musicians are used to the "key" as being whatever chord is first. So for example, "The Way" by Fastball would be in F#. Some players take it an extra step by saying F#minor. You're not likely to hear someone say F# Aeolian but this is the most accurate (at least for the beginning of the song).

More about keys here: http://guitar-music-theory.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=109