I agree - you say it all there, darkangel...this piece is incredibly difficult - way past the level of grade 8 - I would put it around the level of the ABRSM Licentiate Diploma, I think. Some very difficult passagework to be negotiated, some to be treated with the same vocal-respect as you might treat a Bach 5-part Fugue: very hard, but possibly the most rewarding thing to play, ever!
So is it the orchestral part that is difficult? The intro sounds more simple.
(Grade 7 maybe).
i deno where your from but maybe grade 7 university!!(k not that hard) its definately a challenging piece... harder than gried concerto for sure. Its easier then rachmaninoffs other conertos though.....would definately need to habe arct before playing... not grade 7!!!