Meet Dany Anka | Luthier, or Guitar Maker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dany Anka and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dany, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I view risk as an essential element in my craft. Embracing innovation, trying new techniques, and taking on challenging projects have not only fueled my passion but also led to continuous growth and satisfied clients. Adapting to change and overcoming challenges through calculated risks has been instrumental in shaping my successful career as a craftsman in guitar making.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
AnkaCustom is my personal journey fueled by an unwavering passion for craftsmanship and music. What truly sets us apart is the blend of traditional artistry with modern technology. As a bass player frustrated by unaffordable custom instruments, I channeled that frustration into a labor of love, handcrafting instruments and later integrating CNC precision.

I take immense pride in our meticulous, hands-on approach. Skilled luthiers devote countless hours to shaping, sanding, fretting, soldering, and assembling each instrument. It’s not just about creating aesthetically pleasing guitars; it’s about delivering reliable, road-proof, and functional instruments refined over the years. What excites me is the continuous pursuit of excellence, learning from challenges along the way.

My journey wasn’t an easy one – from self-learning and apprenticeship to embracing CNC technology. Each challenge became a stepping stone, teaching me resilience and adaptability. AnkaCustom instruments embody this journey, designed to cater to the evolving needs of musicians. I want the world to know that AnkaCustom is more than a brand; it’s a personal commitment to quality, innovation, and a shared love for the art of guitar and bass making.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When showcasing the best of Houston to my visiting best friend, I’d start with a Texan breakfast at Common Bond Café & Bakery before delving into the rich cultural scene at the Museum District. For an authentic Tex-Mex experience, El Tiempo Cantina is a must-visit. A day of nature awaits at Hermann Park and Buffalo Bayou Park, providing a perfect balance of tranquility and adventure. Culinary delights continue with a visit to The Heights for diverse local flavors and a Creole feast at Brennan’s of Houston. The arts and culture scene unfolds at the Contemporary Arts Museum and the vibrant street art in the Heights neighborhood. Shopping at The Galleria, dining at Yauatcha, and catching a live performance at the House of Blues add a touch of glamour. A day trip to NASA’s Space Center Houston and an evening at Kemah Boardwalk provide an out-of-this-world experience. Outdoor activities at Discovery Green, catching a Houston Astros game at Minute Maid Park, and a farewell seafood dinner at Pappadeaux’s Seafood Kitchen complete the journey. Throughout the week, renowned bars like Anvil Bar & Refuge and Captain Foxheart’s Bad News Bar & Spirit Lounge, along with top-notch restaurants such as Pappadeaux’s Seafood Kitchen and Killen’s BBQ, would be woven into the fabric of this Houston adventure, ensuring an unforgettable exploration of the city’s diverse and vibrant offerings.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First of all, shoutout to my brother Jose David Anka, who let me use his woodshop and encouraged me to build my first instrument. My parents who supported my career with no hesitation. Billy Waters for being my angel investor and for believing and supporting me both financially and emotionally.

Website: www.ankacustom.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ankacustomguitars

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dany-anka-746898251/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ankacustom

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AnkaCustomGuitarsBasses/videos

Image Credits
Joe Villafane Noah Elkins