The Battle Between David and Goliath Movt. 2: The Israelites tremble and pray to God

I continue with the theme of light and dark in this upload of the First Sonata from Kuhnau's six "Biblical Sonatas." Of great interest are his own references to things light and dark in the preface. Here is a highly edited version:

"The Egyptian image of Memnon was once a masterpiece of art. When the sun’s rays illuminated it, it produced a musical sound, and one could hear its beautiful tone without seeing it. Art was in its light as well as in its shadow. Here, I bring copies of old pictures from originals....from masters of masters, who lived in the light and served as creators of the sun. They are adorned with a fine light touch...

I attempt to refine some images and histories I have had in my collection for a long time and have tried to bring them to light through some musical inventions. I must confess that I cannot determine whether these figures appear in darkness or light, or whether they should be considered day or night.

Thus, I hope to bring some light and warmth into the matter. Just as the sun disperses the morning fog, so too does wisdom and legal scholarship, which are judged by the sun’s rays, clarifying the heart and keeping the mind firm against chaos and instability.

Thus, under the bright light of the sun, this noble harmony and virtue can flourish. I wish to return to the noble temple, where, as in previous times, political and legal knowledge should be combined, much like the beautiful harmony in music. With this dedication, I. wish to pay tribute to many noblemen who are blessed by the sun at midday, while we remain under its afternoon shadows.

Theology should stand alongside music, as both are enlightened by the same rays of the sun. And just as my work is drawn from the Holy Scriptures and refined with a modest musical invention, it is my wish that these carefully crafted images of sacred histories should be favorably received by the world. Should experts receive them fondly, that would fulfill my greatest wish."