Margaret Bernstein

Executive Director Margaret Bernstein founded Azalea Blossom Incorporated in 2005 as a sister organization to her publishing/production company, Growing Azalea Music, in order to facilitate projects dedicated to social awareness. In 2007, she successfully created and launched the SAFE through the Arts program, based upon the key components of Self Affirmation, Financial independence, and Education of Non-Violence, to prevent youth from engaging in abusive relationships. As an educator, Ms. Bernstein holds New York State teaching certifications in vocal and instrumental music (grades nursery through 12th) and multiple subject classroom instruction (grades pre-kindergarten through 6th). She has previously taught in several schools and school districts throughout Western Marin County, California and New York State’s Capital District including the Schenectady, Albany, and Greenville School Districts. She is also the founder of the Youth Sahavas, a retreat for teenagers held annually in South Carolina based upon positive peer pressure and support.

A classically trained musician, Ms. Bernstein holds degrees in flute performance from Oberlin Conservatory of Music (BM), and Arizona State University (MM) and has performed flute on numerous recordings including a compilation produced by The Who’s Pete Townsend and her own two releases of her own original compositions, “Full Circle” and “On the Threshold of Change”. She has also performed with the Albany Symphony, the Saint Cecilia Chamber Players, and with Dance Brigade (Oakland, California).

Margaret Bernstein is also the songwriter responsible for the “Bricks in the Wall” project aimed at bringing awareness and healing to the general public through her audio collection of original songs, music video, and concerts with her five piece band. As a composer and songwriter, Ms. Bernstein has received repeated awards from UNISONG, West Coast Songwriters' Organization, and the Association of Songwriters, Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP). Her catalogue of compositions includes two original children's musicals, “The Little Seed” and “The Trees' Song for Peace” in addition to scores of songs for children and school choruses.

Ms. Bernstein currently resides in Rensselaerville, New York with her thiteen year old son, Julian.