This piece of music is used at the beginning of Act 1 of the ballet, in the scene where presents are given to the children under the Christmas tree. Following a fanfare, a melody imitating the children's lively movements, characterized by a skipping motif, is played by the right hand. In the orchestral version, this theme is performed by the violins. The melody, which begins on an anacrusis, appears to portray the impatience of a child eagerly awaiting presents.