Carnatic music is characterized by the use of fixed melodic structures called ragas, emphasis on improvisation and ornamentation, and the use of complex rhythmic patterns called talas.

The veena is a plucked string instrument that is considered the primary instrument in Carnatic music.

Kritis are a prominent vocal style in Carnatic music, characterized by their elaborate structure and use of ragas.

Thillanas are a type of Carnatic music composition that is typically used for dance, characterized by their lively rhythm and intricate footwork.

Adi tala, Rupakam tala, and Mishra Chapu tala are all common talas used in Carnatic music.

Kutcheri is the term for a Carnatic music concert, which typically features a main artist accompanied by a group of musicians.

Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and Shyama Shastri are all prominent Carnatic music composers, known for their contributions to the genre.

Sangeetha Sammelan, Sangeetha Utsav, and Sangeetha Mahotsav are all terms for a Carnatic music festival.

M.S. Subbulakshmi, D.K. Pattammal, and Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer are all prominent Carnatic music vocalists.

Vainika, Violinist, and Mridangist are all terms for a Carnatic music instrumentalist.

The Music Academy, Chennai, Kalakshetra Foundation, Chennai, and Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi are all prominent Carnatic music institutions.

Carnatic Music Research Centre, Chennai, Central College of Carnatic Music, Chennai, and Sangeet Research Academy, Chennai are all terms for a Carnatic music research center.

Sruti, Carnatica, and The Journal of the Music Academy, Chennai are all prominent Carnatic music magazines.

Carnatic Music Online, Carnatic Music Foundation, and Carnatic Music Association of North America are all terms for a Carnatic music website.