Jim Van Winkle Named Professional Wireless Systems GM

pws-gm-jim-van-winkle.jpgORLANDO: Jim Van Winkle, former director of regional services for the Masque Sound Corporate Theater Division, has rejoined the firm as General Manager of its Orlando, Fla. based Professional Wireless Systems division.

Van Winkle cut his pro audio teeth as shop manager for Sound Associates in NY from 1978 -'87, while simultaneously serving as sound mixer and electrician with the original Broadway production of "CATS.' He began his relationship with Masque Sound while loading the show into the Winter Garden Theater. He also served as house mixer for Radio City Music Hall during that period. Van Winkle later toured as FOH and Monitor Mixer for both Harry Belafonte and Lena Horne. After his initial seven-year tenure (1992-'99) with Masque Sound, Van Winkle went on to serve as GM for Rock City Sound 1999 - 2004 and as Sound Supervisor for Hulk Hogan and other reality TV shows.

"I enjoyed my initial association with Masque Sound, and have maintained relationships with many of the people I worked with there," Van Winkle said. "When Geoff Shearing asked me to take the reins at Professional Wireless Systems it seemed like a perfect fit. PWS has been extremely active on the broadcast, live sound, corporate and theatrical fronts. The R&D department here has pioneered some exceptionally innovative new technology designed to accommodate the rapidly shifting RF environment and the on-going migration to digital. We've got a terrific team in place, and I'm very pleased to be working with them."

In welcoming him to his new post, Masque Sound co-principal Geoff Shearing remarked, "Jim Van Winkle is one of the most well-rounded execs in the Pro Audio field. He has served successfully in virtually every capacity the industry has to offer. His leadership qualities and people skills are further enhanced by his hands-on technical expertise. We are fortunate to have him back with us."

Photo: Jim Van Winkle has been named General Manager of the Masque Sound Professional Wireless Systems

###

Founded in 1936 by a trio of Broadway stagehands, Masque Sound evolved into one of NYC's most successful theatrical sound reinforcement, installation and design companies specializing in live concert, TV Broadcast, corporate, industrial, theatrical, house of worship and sports events. Credits range from major Broadway shows including Billy Elliott, Les Miz and Lion King to yearly Super Bowl broadcasts and concerts for such artists as Hilary Duff, Jesse McCartney and Celtic Woman. The firm's 3rd generation owners Geoff and James Shearing also operate Florida-based Professional Wireless Systems, a leader in the development and implementation of wireless technology. The company's 70,000 sq. ft. corporate headquarters and main assembly facility is located at 21 East Union Ave., East Rutherford, NJ, twenty minutes from mid-town Manhattan. (201) 939 8666, www.MasqueSound.com