*
banner

Leyland to go on a bear hunt...

There will be plenty of family fun in 2026 for supporters of Leyland Band — as they lead the musical accompaniment to a classic bear hunt.

We are going on a bear hunt
  The animated film will come with a brass band accompaniment for the first time

Following in the steps of the successful live performance collaborations to animated films such as 'The Snowman' and 'Wallace & Gromit', the Leyland Band will showcase Live in Concert shows in 2026 with 'We're Going on a Bear Hunt'.

It will be the first time the acclaimed animated film will be synchronised with brass band accompaniment.

Classic

The much-loved 2016 animated adaptation is based on the children's classic by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury. The original television broadcast run on Channel 4 was watched by over 8 million viewers.

It featured voice-cast including Olivia Colman, Pam Ferris, Mark William and Michael Rosen himself as the Bear. The soundtrack also features the song, 'Me & You' by George Ezra, written and recorded for the film.

March premiere

The brass band premiere will take place on Saturday 14th March in Preston and will form part of the band's 80th anniversary celebrations. The concert will feature the complete original score conducted by the film's composer Stuart Hancock. The band then hope to feature the show across the UK.

Speaking about the new venture, Leyland Band Chairperson, Dan Moore told 4BR: "Our film shows have been a huge success and have brought in large audiences of families. Now we have set out with this family favourite film that also resonates with audiences of all ages.

'We're Going on a Bear Hunt' has charm, adventure and beautiful music and makes it an ideal film-in-concert experience. We can't wait to deliver this live performance and work Stuart Hancock."

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Sparke

British Open Countdown: T minus 9

September 3 • The countdown is underway for this year's British Open with 'Music of the Spheres' ready for lift off. But which European own-choice topping piece comes close to it in contest popularity since it was used in 2004?


Friary

New signing at Friary

September 3 • Cornish cornet player Jacob Griffiths returns to the banding fold with Friary.


BrookWright

2026 BrookWright Solo winners announced

September 3 • Mark Vause and Elijah Baker claim the main category awards with 11-year-old cornetist Bradley Mahungu capturing the Public Commendation Prize.


Music

Spheres starting to align across the UK

September 3 • Keep an eye out for a chance to hear a preview of 'Music of the Spheres' ahead of the British Open at Symphony Hall.


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the 2026 British Open

Tuesday 8 September • Ossett Town Hall, Market Place, Ossett WF5 8BE


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Yorkshire Imperial

September 3 • Yorkshire Imperial band have SECOND HORN and BBb­ BASS vacancies available. . At Imps we have a proud tradition, clear ambitions and a sensible, well-planned schedule. We're looking for musicians who want to make outstanding music & will enjoy the journey!


Crewe Brass

September 1 • Crewe Brass are looking for a FRONT ROW CORNET to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Crewe Brass

September 1 • Crewe Brass are looking for a BBb BASS to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Jonathan Pippen


Conductor, Adjudicator, Trombone Soloist & Clinician


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd