Meet the Directors

Ms. Chaya is a former Hillsborough student who began playing the alto saxophone in 5th grade at Woodfern school. Her love of the saxophone continued throughout her school journey in Hillsborough and led to her completion of a Bachelors of Music Education from Montclair State University in 2012. She began teaching Instrumental Music at Auten Road in September 2012 where she is currently the 5th grade Band Director. Most recently, Ms. Chaya received her Masters of Music in Music Education from Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University in 2018.

Bryan Cook graduated from The College of New Jersey in 2021 with a Bachelors in Music Education. He has taught at the High School level and the Middle School level.  Mr. Cook joined our Hillsborough team in 2022 to teach 5th and 6th grade Band at Auten Road Intermediate School!  When not teaching, Bryan plays trumpet for churches and other community groups.  Other hobbies include playing video games, watching Disney+, and collecting comics! 

Jennifer Downs graduated from Montclair State University in 2019 with a bachelor's degree in music education. She began her career in Hamilton Township teaching beginner strings in grades three through five. In 2021, Miss Downs received her master's degree in curriculum and instruction from Western Governors University. When not teaching, Miss Downs can be found creating music, reading, spending time with her family and cats, and enjoying all things Disney!  

Ms. Lansberry has been an integral part of the ARIS Instrumental Music Department since 2004. Ms. Lansberry has a B.M. in Music Education from The College of New Jersey and a M.Ed in Educational Leadership from Rider University. She began her teaching career as an Elementary General Music Specialist for Brick Township and has taught all levels grades K - 12 including Instrumental, Choral and General Music. Ms. Lansberry peforms profesionally with the Eastern Wind Symphony and has a private studio of high acheiving middle and high school students. She also enjoys editing music for dance and skating competitions and is an avid Disney fan! Ms. Lansberry lives in Robbinsville with her husband, her daughter and their 3 1/2 pound puppy.