Although in D minor, this minuet is by no means heavy. Throughout the piece, F major is the only key other than D minor. It is effective to differentiate the volume and tone quality between the F major and D minor sections. This differentiation involves playing F major softly and gently, while D minor should be played with a more severe and louder tone.

Measures 1-4 (D minor)

The F in measure 1 descends to D an octave lower by measure 4. Measure 3 is the dominant, so you may increase the tension here once.

Measures 5-8 (F major)

Play this section with an expression entirely different from measures 1-4.

Measures 9-12 (Sequence)

This is a descending sequence in two-measure units. It is a sequence in F major (measures 9-10) and D minor (measures 11-12). Vary the dynamics. It is likely that playing the F major section softer will be consistent later on. Although measures 11-12 are in D minor, there is an ascending scale in the left hand, which passes the baton to the next measure (m. 13), and the tension increases.

Measures 13-16 (D minor)

In measure 14, the B in the right hand becomes the highest note, so it would be effective to apply a gradual crescendo starting from the left hand in measure 12.