Form

A [a (measures 1-4) + a1 (measures 5-8)]

B [b (measures 9-12) + a2 (measures 13-16)]

Tonality

Although there is no key signature, the tonality is C minor. The absence of a key signature is intentional, for educational purposes.

Theme and Atmosphere

The theme is found in measures 1-4. The quarter-note bass ostinato in the left hand evokes the drum, as suggested by the title. Furthermore, the combination of the dark C minor tonality and the bass ostinato creates a uniquely mysterious atmosphere.

Harmonic Analysis of the Theme

Due to the identical repetition of the bass ostinato, harmonic changes are scarce within the theme; however, the F# on the second beat of measures 3, 7, and 11 implies a dominant chord. By perceiving these measures as subtly dominant and feeling the harmonic resolution in the subsequent measures, a clearer phrase structure can be understood.

Analysis of the 'b' Section

In the b section, a melodic line can be observed in the bass. Such changes in register lead to changes in timbre; therefore, a clear change in tone color is desired here, perhaps through pedagogical ingenuity such as personifying different characters. Harmonically, the progression of I → double dominant is repeated, and as an imperfect cadence, it transitions to the next section without harmonic resolution. For this reason, rather than harmonic expression, an intervallic expression that captures the augmented second from Eb to F#, or the augmented fourth from C to F#, is desired. Furthermore, while the accented major second in the upper voice seen in measures 10 and 12 are chord tones, their percussive nuance is considered stronger.