In his travel writings the English musicologist Charles Burney described the now little-known Johann Heinrich Rolle (1716-85) as an impassioned and highly imaginative composer who had gained the greatest fame with his sacred works, and during his own lifetime did indeed enjoy great renown. His motets display rich invention and formal variety far transcending mere solid craftsmanship, keeping technical demands moderate while retaining elegance and tonal beauty. Their varied character won them a firm place in the essential liturgical repertoire of their times.