Though not so well-known today, Jean-Féry Rebel's dramatic depiction of the four elements was one of the great hits of early 18th century French music. From the stark dramatization of Le Cahos (sampled below) to the sweet and gentle swing of the Earth and Water, the work is at turns frightening and soothing. I have often played the opening to students and asked when they thought it was written (or who they thought wrote it). No one has yet answered either question correctly.