The University of Music FRANZ LISZT Weimar is one of the few German universities of music to offer Opera répétiteur studies as an independent major. Traditions go back to the seventies of the last century, when this specialisation established itself particularly at East German music universities.

The aim of the degree programme is to obtain a professional qualification to work as a répétiteur in music theatres and related institutions. The focus of this major is therefore on opera and music theatre accompaniment. Independent major study programmes for instrumental or ballet accompaniment are not offered at the University of Music in Weimar.

Opera répétiteur training at the University of Music FRANZ LISZT Weimar is closely linked to training in conducting. This goes back to the traditions of German music theatre, in which the activity of conducting was and is an essential component and important basis for the conductor's profession. Budding conductors often begin their career as répétiteurs. Conversely, it is possible that outstanding répétiteurs discover and develop their conducting talent during the course of their studies or in the first years of their career. It is possible to switch from the major subject of répétiteur training to the major subject of conducting (with the option of specialising in orchestral or choral conducting) if the relevant requirements are met and the transfer examination is passed.

Opera répétiteur studies is an artistic degree programme and ends with the award of a Bachelor's or Master's degree. In exceptional cases, outstanding students can additionally acquire a (piano) pedagogical degree (teaching qualification for piano/piano methodology). The prerequisite for this is an examination in the keyboard instruments department. The requirements are roughly based on the pre-degree requirements for piano as a major subject.

The major subject Opera répétiteur studies is currently taught at the University of Music FRANZ LISZT Weimar by Professors Ulrich Vogel and Hans-Christian Steinhöfel.