I'm not going to sit here and critique directors for choosing lower grade PML pieces (I don't think you are, either). If working up a 3 and a 2 will allow the kids to play at the standards required for a first division, then maybe that's what they need to play. If I was a judge, and I am not, I would rather hear bands play pieces that they can play well instead of straining for a more challenging piece that they aren't ready for yet.