Innovator Award: Katie Robinette and Amy Banks of Central City Orchestra

In one sentence, tell us what you do. 

Robin-Banks Entertainment, LLC is a women-owned production company that offers two high-end live music options: Downtown Sound, our 7 piece ensemble and our premier, 10 piece Central City Orchestra.

Why did you start doing the work you're doing?

Katie and I saw a need in Central PA for a top-rate corporate party band with a “big city” feel. We also saw from our decades of experience in the industry a few things that don’t work so well. We wanted to change that. Our business is based on developing excellent, professional products (music groups) treating our band members and contractors as valuable stakeholders and working hands-on with other wedding vendors and our clients to provide a seamless, unforgettable entertainment experience. — Amy

What inspires you?

Bringing joy to others, creating situations that are a win-win for everyone involved and expressing gratitude for the amazing experiences we are able to create through commitment and partnership. — Amy

Just like Amy, I enjoy making people happy. I love seeing smiling faces and creating memories that will last forever. I am also very inspired by the talented musicians within' our organization; they inspire me to provide them with lucrative opportunities. They deserve it, they've all worked so hard to master their crafts. — Katie 

What's most special about Lancaster to you?

Lancaster has a lot of heart. In my 17 years having lived here, the growth we’ve experienced is a testament to a community whose members care about one another and are committed to increasing the quality of living – culturally and economically – for everyone. Despite our differences, this little town seems united in a lot of ways. — Amy 

How do you take care of yourself when you're feeling burnt out?

I enjoy spending time with my family; hiking, kayaking or just watching movies at home.  I also enjoy cooking, spending time with friends and if I really need to "get away" I love doing puzzles. A good old fashioned 500 piece puzzle takes my mind off everything. — Katie

What's your advice to people who have big dreams and visions they want to make reality?

Know what you want. Be prepared to deal with anything that comes at you. Believe that everything is possible, because it is. — Amy

Stop thinking about it and just do it. The more you think about it, the more likely you are to talk yourself out of it. Big dreams and big visions are scary, and it's okay to be scared. As they say, ‘If your dreams don't scare you, dream bigger.’ — Katie

How do you hope to change your community — and the world?

There are so many things I would love to change or make an impact on locally and globally. When I really dig down deep and think about it, I want to help create a more diverse, open-minded and loving community. I want to create an environment of love, inclusion and appreciation through our business and through our music. Music has been such a big part of my life; the way it makes us feel as performers and as listeners. I appreciate the skillsets of those who have worked so very hard on their craft. Being a talented musician is certainly something to be proud of! It should be praised and recognized because it takes extreme dedication and it's a hard road. — Katie 

What are you looking forward to in 2020?

In 2020, I plan to expand upon this business with an additional music venture that will provide anyone who's interested in learning and performing music to get up on stage and let their inner rock stars shine. To be continued... — Amy