This usage often has a negative tone, implying disgrace or failure.

Negative Connotation

Originally, military drummers played to expel disgraced soldiers. It signifies disgrace.

Historical Context

Commonly used in an informal context when describing someone’s exit.

Often used when talking about teaching methods that help students remember.

The term implies repetition which can sometimes be tiresome or annoying.

Can be used to describe a dramatic or exaggerated manner of reinforcing an idea.

Use this to evoke images of a repetitive, persistent sound or rhythm.

Implies a sound that is constant and unchanging, like a heartbeat.

It's metaphorical, not literal, and refers to non-musical contexts too.