State University of Music and Performing Arts, Stuttgart

The State University of Music and Performing Arts, located in Stuttgart, is a prestigious institution dedicated to the training of musicians and performing artists. Established in 1857 originally as the Stuttgart Music School (Stuttgarter Musikschule) by founders Sigmund Lebert, Immanuel Faisst, Wilhelm Speidel, and Ludwig Stark, the institution has undergone several transformations. It was designated as a conservatory in 1865 and became known as the Royal Conservatory of Music in 1869 under the patronage of the Kingdom of Württemberg, before transitioning to the Württemberg University of Music in 1921.

Today, the university stands as the oldest and largest University of Music in Baden-Württemberg, with nearly 830 students. Situated along Stuttgart’s “Culture Mile,” it serves not only as an educational institution but also as a vital concert promoter and cultural hub in the region. The university’s extensive facilities include the iconic building with a 50-meter high tower, three concert halls with seating for up to 500 people, and the historical Wilhelma Theater dating from 1840. This theater, along with an opera studio in cooperation with the Staatsoper Stuttgart and an acting studio in collaboration with the Staatsschauspiel Stuttgart, provides students with valuable practical experience.

Annually, the university hosts about 450 public concerts and approximately 100 additional concert and theatre events at the Wilhelma Theater, attracting around 85,000 visitors. Unique aspects of the university include its collection of 11 organs and a state-of-the-art studio for electronic music. It also boasts the only existing figure theatre course in the former West German states, further emphasizing its specialized and comprehensive offerings in music and the performing arts.