Benny Grotto

Benny Grotto is an Assistant Professor in the Music Production and Engineering (MP&E) Department at Berklee College of Music, a leading institution in contemporary music education. He is also a co-owner of Mad Oak Studios in Boston, one of the city's premier recording facilities, where he has spent over 15 years as a producer, mixer, and recording engineer.

His research and professional interests center around music production, audio engineering, and the integration of analog and digital technologies in modern recording. With deep experience across genres—from hardcore punk to mainstream rock—he emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving in the studio, teaching students how to approach diverse recording challenges creatively and technically.

Grotto's career includes significant achievements such as serving as the recording engineer on Weird Al Yankovic’s Grammy-winning, No. 1 album Mandatory Fun, and working with iconic acts like Aerosmith. His industry expertise bridges academic instruction with real-world application.

His awards include winning the 2010 Boston Music Award for Producer of the Year and receiving 12 nominations for the same honor, reflecting consistent excellence in the field.

As an educator and mentor, Grotto advises students through his teaching at Berklee, drawing from his extensive network and hands-on experience. He also managed the revival of Mad Oak Studios after a hiatus, demonstrating entrepreneurial and leadership skills in the music business sector.

He is associated with Mad Oak Studios, a professional recording environment that functions as both a commercial studio and an informal training ground for emerging engineers and producers.