Born in Augsburg, Brigitte Thoma began her studies at the conservatory, followed by courses in flute and then oboe at the Munich Musikhochschule. She began vocal study at the Munich Richard Strauss Conservatory, continuing with Josef Metternich, and at the Munich Musikhochschule. After success in various competitions, she undertook engagements in Passau, Coburg, Osnabrück and Kiel, performing a series of rôles that ranged from Leonore (Fidelio) to Saffi (Zigeunerbaron). Her career has also brought appearances in oratorio and major choral works.