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, FL-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, and also served as house mixer for Radio City Music Hall during that period.
Van Winkle later toured as Front of House and Monitor Mixer for both Harry Belafonte and Lena Horne. After his initial seven-year tenure (1992-’99) with Masque Sound, he 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.”
