Article is a collaboration of participants in the project
From October 13th to 19th, 2025, the IT teams of Merigar West and Dzamling Gar gathered at Dzamling Gar for a week of collaboration and technical work, joined by our Austrian sound engineer, Philip Zauner.
Originally planned as a training session on sound equipment, the week evolved into a hands-on preparation for the upcoming 2026 retreat. Together we focused on refining the Gönpa’s sound system to ensure clear and balanced audio for future events and in particular the upcoming retreat of Namkhai Yeshi in February.
To improve the experience from last year, we also set up a stage monitor for Yeshi (and for all our instructors, Umdzes, etc), giving a direct sound on the stage and making the experience smoother.
A mobile wall in under construction right now, and will be used to cut the reflection from the back of the Gönpa to the stage.
With Philip’s precious guidance, we set up a quadriphonic sound space to experience the soundscapes created by Yeshi and adjusted the system so that the voice could be heard clearly throughout the Gönpa – even before the acoustic treatment is completed.
The team worked step by step: defining the working area, positioning speakers, running cables, testing microphones, and applying equalization according to Yeshi’s sound study. We also designed the setup for translators and shared all progress with Yeshi for his feedback.
Beyond the technical tasks, the week was a true experience of collaboration and friendship. Gloriana Brenes (former Gakyil president) took wonderful care of everyone by cooking delicious meals each day, and we all shared moments of learning, laughter, and teamwork between our two Gars.
It was an inspiring week – an example of how shared effort and mutual support continues to strengthen our Community.
We’ve made great progress with our IT and Sound Teams at Dzamling Gar. This project is not just about better technology; it’s about making our Community experience richer. These improvements show our shared goal of doing things well.
To keep this collaborative effort going and to use these new improvements fully, we need your help. We need about 42,000 € to finish and keep this important project running. This money will help us make sure the sound is always clear for all future events, especially for Namkhai Yeshi’s retreat in February 2026. It will also help us finish making the Gönpa sound even better.
Your gift, big or small, shows that we all want to create a dynamic as well as serene place for learning and practice. Please help us secure the future of this important project. Together we can continue to make our Community stronger through our shared effort and support.
Donate here: https://dzamlinggar.org/en/acoustic-project/
