Thanks, Peter.
I use something similar: scalar degree notation, whereby each note in the major scale is assigned a number 1-7. So for the C major scale, C is 1, D is 2, E is 3, etc. (Eb would be b3, etc.)
That way, any melody can be written as a series of numbers. (Over the Rainbow would be 1 8 / 7 5 6 7 8 / etc.)
All my music (over 100 standards and numerous pop tunes) consist of only 3 lines: chords, lyrics and degree numbers. With those, I can comp, play melody and improvise, and I can instantly play the melody in any key named.
It does away with the need for traditional music notation and tabs.
It works for me.
- Alastair


Cheers! -Alastair