Though in 1744 Handel presented the oratorio BELSHAZZAR as an oratorio, or religious work, it was later staged many times operatically. The opening should be neither too slow or too fast, and perhaps maybe thought of as an introductory fanfare for strings. (The original included oboes.) For better attack, bowing marked in the score as 'hooked' may rather be played separately and nearer the frog, but this might require greater technical ability.