Music and Dance in 2 Samuel 6

The reforms in music and dance in the second procession of 2 Samuel 6 are part of a larger set of ritual reforms in the second procession. Some of the changes are in the mechanics and personnel of the rite. The ark is now carried on the shoulders, and the original transporters of the vessel are presumably replaced. The music and dance complement what the sacrifices, both at the beginning and end of the second procession, seek to achieve.