Ambush by Dakota Pederson is a work that describes the fight of war and recounts a flanking ambush set out by soldiers as they close in on a victory. A fiery chord opens the work and is followed by a relentless melody, which is expressed through precise articulation. The work challenges performers to focus on articulation and expression, while giving the percussion section a driving rhythm to maintain the energy. Strong harmonies in the brass and bold melodies throughout make this piece a fierce statement of war and victory. (4:12)