It is not certain but indicated by the writings of Selle that he studied with Calvisius in Leipzig. He was definitively influenced by the works of Schein. Selle held positions at Hiede (Kantor), Wesselburen (rector) and Itzehoe (Kantor). His last position was as Kantor for Johanneum, in Hamburg and as the director of music for that city. Selle was a prolific vocal composer of both sacred and secular music the most important composition being his "St. John Passion," 1641. It was the first Passion that contained instrumental interludes. Selle is known for his interest and attempts at incorporating current forms and styles in his compositions. Both his concertos for the church and his passions contain fluid and malleable music. He also understood the import of variation in scorings and sonority. Although he is not considered an hallmark composer, Selle also understood the importance of well developed chorale themes. ~ Keith Johnson