Blue Shades was actually selected as the A Grade (Champion grade) concert band test piece for the 2005 Australian Band Championships.
It graded at level 5, but is a relatively easy selection choice for A grade. This is compared to the 2006 selection of "Harrison's Dream" by Peter Graham, which is level 6 (and at the most extreme scale of this level).
NB: level 6 is the highest level in the grading of music. A grade usually selected from level 5 onwards, B grade - level 4, C Grade - level 3, D grade level 2 -3.
Re: Blue Shades by Frank Ticheli 22:41 on Friday, July 28, 2006
I must echo the sentiments for a copy of this solo.
My email address: a.simple.facade@gmail.com
I once had a copy, and enjoyed playing it, however, it has since eluded me. I love how the song sounds, and in order for my band director to allow us to play it, he has to be sure that someone can handle the solo.