Can 2 Chords Set You Free?

'Monterey Beach' is an improvisation exercise I came up with to teach students about the power of limits. That is, by limiting choice (playing just 2 open position chords) focus is easily achieved. How? Because you know what you'll be playing - you just don't know how you'll be playing it.

I've used these kinds of exercises with great success. Especially for students who, for one reason or another, have problems letting go and just 'going with' the music. Actually, doing something like this is excellent improvisation practice anytime you want to 'loosen up' at the piano!