*
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    


EverReady Band

New duo at EverReady

January 10 • New talent is welcomed at EverReady Band as they say a fond farewell to a stalwart performer.


Mallinson

Hammonds sign NYBBGB flugel Mallinson

January 10 • The Hammonds Band has signed Noah Mallinson as their new flugel horn player.


John Wallace CBE

John Wallace becomes new Honorary Vice President at coop

January 10 • The Brass in Concert champion has spoken of its pride that John Wallace CBE has become its new Honorary Vice President.


Megan Bousfield

4BR Friday interview with Megan Bousfield

January 9 • 4BR Editor Iwan Fox talks to NYBBGB Conductor Competition finalist Megan Bousfield.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Mid Rhondda Band

January 6 • Mid Rhondda Band are currently looking for a trombone player and percussionists to join the team. We are a friendly, welcoming 3rd section band working towards competing in the Welsh Area in March. We also have a variety of events booked for 2026.


The Marple Band

January 6 • Bb Bass and Tuned Percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly, ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new year.


James McLeod

BMus (hons)
Euphonium Soloist, Teacher and Conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd