One of the things I miss most about home is singing with the Palmer Family Band. Making music is a great experience in itself. Making music with your family takes the fun to the next level. I hear that the Band is performing this weekend. I hope I will be missed.

In Doha, the music scene is quite active, though it isn't always easy to find out what is happening. In real Doha style, things are usually not advertised very well. Most often you read in the Gulf Times about something taking place on the day of reading. Occasionally you may find yourself by accident in the right place at the right time to take in a concert, like the night that we heard the Arabic band at the Old Souk.

We've been fortunate in the number of musical events that we've been able to take in. The most exciting event was the inaugural concert of the Doha Philharmonic Orchestra which took place in the beautiful national theater. Qatar has managed to bring musicians from all over the world to form its first national orchestra. One of the "house boys" here in the compound kept his ear to the ground and was able to acquire tickets for about 12 of his compatriots. Beethoven's Fifth was followed by Ravel's Bolero. The highlight of the concert, however, was the Arabian Concerto composed by Marcel Kalife and commissioned for the event. It was an intriguing mixture of western and Arabic instruments and sounds. It all made for a very satisfying evening.

Jazz is big here as well. One of the large hotels holds regular jazz nights. We were fortunate to be able to share in a concert by a jazz quintet from Virginia Commonwealth University in concert with the jazz band from the American School of Doha. This year is the 10th anniversary of VCU-Qatar, and part of their celebration was to bring this group of talented musicians from Richmond, Virginia. The quintet workshopped with the American school band and the concert was the result of that work. The professionals were amazing, but I was especially pleased to hear the young musicians and to see the smiles of accomplishment on their faces. Memories of my own kids experience with jazz bands in high school came back to me.

We have tickets for another musical event at the American School when they will stage their production of West Side Story. I have become familiar with some of the students at the school and I'm looking forward to seeing them perform.

I've been able to participate in some music as well. On Nov. 18, the Doha Singers performed for an audience of 600 at the American School. The program included classical religious works, a British folk song, a spiritual, a stage musical number, and concluded with an interesting arrangement of We Wish You a Merry Christmas. You can see me in the back row on the left, one of only 8 sopranos in a choir of about 60. I've never been in a choir with so few sopranos. Fortunately, each one but myself was trained, professional, or a music teacher. I just had to listen hard, and I was able to stay on pitch.

Also performing in the same concert was the Doha Orchestra. They presented a variety of music as well and we were all amazed by the skill of the youngest players. I think that I will take part in the orchestra after Christmas. It will be a good opportunity to improve my trumpet skills.

One of my favorite musical experiences since I've been here is the music of the Tamil worshippers. Their sound was clear and pure and joyful, accompanied by a variety of percussion instruments and keyboard. The music only enhanced the atmosphere of love and worship that permeated the room. And of course, the Arabic concert at the Old Souk was an experience that I will remember. I need to learn more about Arabic instruments and music. It is very rhythmic, and uses various types of strings from violins to guitars to sitars, as well as different types of drums.

So music has been a big part of my Doha experience so far. I'm sorry that I have not been able to experience more of the authentic music of the region. It surprises me that there is not more support for and promotion of Arabic music. In this political climate where it is vital that we come to understand other cultures, music is a universal language and an avenue for mutual appreciation and acceptance.

So, this weekend there will be a vacant spot and an unused mic in the Palmer Family Band. I hope they all think of me once in a while. I will miss Christmas carols this year as well. But I will be singing them in my heart, and I will be thinking of you all on Sunday.

Oh yes, one more thing. I'm always teasing my sister Valerie about the music at the Anglican Church. Well, I think I will have to learn to love it, as I think that is where we will settle our attendance on Friday mornings. The irony of it all.