Glenn D. Anacker A.k.a. Glenn Davis Jazz Percussionist

Glenn D. Anacker, a.k.a. Glenn Davis, Jazz Percussionist

Harmony & Long Valley - Glenn D. Anacker, a.k.a. Glenn Davis, 78, passed away July 23, 2018. He was born to the late Harry and Margaret Anacker. While growing up in Somerville, Glenn was exposed to music early. His father Harry was also a percussionist and band leader of the Paramount Orchestra.

Glenn first played professionally while still in Somerville High School, which marked the start of a career spanning almost 60 years. He performed and recorded with a literal "who's who" of jazz stars, even a "short list" being far too long for inclusion here. He was the preferred drummer for Jazz's most notable pianists, guitarists, saxophonists, and singers in 6 decades of performing and recording.

Highlights of his richly varied musical legacy include an early 1960's international tour with legendary French pianist Bernard Pfeiffer and bassist Gus Nemeth, and recording and years of performing with pianist John Coates, Jr. In the 1970's, Glenn began long standing playing associations with pianist Mike Melillo's "In Free Association" with guitarist Harry Leahey and bassist Roy Cumming. He also formed the rhythm section, along with Cumming, in trios led individually by Melillo and Leahey. Glenn co-led a jazz group with saxophonist Bennie Wallace. In 1979, Glenn recorded with the Higher Primates, an 18 piece percussion group produced by Gunther Schuller.

In the ensuing decades, Glenn also performed around the world and recorded, along with bassist Gary Mazzaroppi, for more than 20 years with pianist Marian McPartland of NPR's "Piano Jazz". Glenn and Gary toured with Stan Getz's reunion with guitarist Jimmy Raney in the mid 80's. Additionally, Glenn performed and recorded with pianist Phil Markowitz's Trio, pianist Jerry Vezza's Trio, guitarist Walt Bibinger, and was a founding member of the co-op Absolut Trio, with guitarist Bill Washer and bassist Paul Rostock.

Glenn was associated with the Music Department of Lafayette College for over 30 years, encompassing numerous performances and many years of applied music teaching, until retirement in 2015.

There will be an inclusive list of Glenn's musical colleagues in a forth coming Wikipedia listing.

Glenn is survived by his loving partner of 25 years Bonnie Shields. He was predeceased by his brother, Wayne R. Anacker. He also leaves behind his late brother's widow, Maddie Anacker, and many, many beloved and devoted friends and colleagues that will sorely miss his humor, kindness and compassion. His music lives on and will be an enduring source of comfort.

There will be a celebration of Glenn's life and Parkinson's fund raiser at the Deer Head Inn, Delaware Water Gap, PA on Thursday, October 11, 2018.

Glenn loved participating in the Parkinson's exercise program Rock Steady Boxing. Donations in memory of Glenn may be made to: Rock Steady Boxing Central Jersey, 3285 Evergreen Lane, South Plainfield, NJ 07080.