Indian classical music consists of two systems: Hindustani and Carnatic. The Hindustani system developed in the northern regions of the country while the Carnatic system refers to music practiced in the south of India.

Carnatic music is considered one of the most ancient music systems in the world. It is a learned music that is full of emotion and involves a lot of improvisation. Its system was largely developed through the contributions of inspired artists such as Purandara Dasa, known as the father of Carnatic music, and other specialists who have codified the system and given it a clear form by developing it as a way of teaching, practising, praying and therapy.

The foundation of Carnatic music involves ragas (melodic scales) and talas (rhythmical cycles). There are seven rhythmic cycles and 72 fundamental ragas. All the other ragas are seen as being part of these 72 ragas. A complex classification system exists for identifying scales, which is called 72 Melakarta Ragas.

Carnatic music is full of compositions from the different ragas. It is made up of songs composed by the great artists, which have been transmitted from generation to generation through various disciples. Although the improvised elaborations of ragas vary from musician to musician, the structured part does not change. These compositions, which are extremely popular, place emphasis on rhythm and are characterised by lively melodic patterns. Three composers of the nineteenth century, Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar and Shama Shastri, have composed thousands of songs that continue to captivate musicians and audiences.

An important element of Carnatic music is its sacred and devotional aspect. The lyrics of traditional compositions, which treat social and mythological themes, always involve devotional or philosophical depths.