A Tender Kiss by the Lake

“A Tender Kiss by the Lake” is a trio between a lilting voice, the sensual sounds of the viola, and a piano steadily pulsing the sense of a mournful cortege. It is the 2nd movement from a work entitled Khaiya – a mini ballet in three tableaux. The name Khaiya derives from the Hebrew word meaning ‘life.’ The performer may choose which accompanying instrument to use, but viola is preffered.

In this movement, we catch a glimpse of our main character (Khaiya, a young Russian girl who lives in a small Ural village) and her handsome beloved exchanging affections on the shore of the lake–all the while, each of them hoping to be kissed eventually by the other. This counterpoint of romance is represented by the melody’s constant dialogue between two instruments.

While Khaiya’s innocent tryst is taking place, The whole village is gathered in sorrow and heartache at the loss of their cherished sage- The Wise Old Man who was a father unto all who lived there. The women of the village stand with heads bowed and hands folded as the silent cortege lead by the other elders takes the body of The Wise Old Man to his place of rest. The piano’s constant rhythm symbolizes this solemn procession to the grave.

At one point, the young lovers look to pay their respects as the melancholic procession passes within their direction. As the procession fades away, Khaiya and her lover embrace and fall tenderly into each others arms.

It is strongly encouraged by the composer that “A Tender Kiss By The Lake” be choreographed and visually expressed whenever it is suitable.