Born in Sindelfingen, Baden-Württemberg,[1] Marlis Petersen won six important piano competitions before eventually going to the Stuttgart Conservatory where she studied music education, flute and dance as well as voice.

She made her operatic debut at the Staatstheater Nürnberg as Ännchen in Der Freischütz which led to a contract with the Deutsche Oper am Rhein, where she primarily sang in operas by Mozart and Strauss.

[4] Petersen has also appeared on the stages of Vienna, Salzburg, Munich, London, Paris, Geneva, and Monte Carlo and is also known for her portrayal of the demanding title role in Alban Bergs Lulu in ten productions around the world.

[5] In addition to her operatic roles, Petersen is known for her performances in works by Johann Sebastian Bach with conductors Ton Koopman and Helmuth Rilling and for her Lieder recitals with pianist Jendrik Springer.

"[7] In March 2021 she premiered in Barrie Kosky's new production of Der Rosenkavalier at the Bavarian State Opera, making role debut as the Marschallin.