South Indian traditional classical music is called Carnatic music. The music is based on melody patterns called 'ragas' and is introduced through 'alapana'. The main emphasis is on vocal music and most compositions are written to be sung. When played on instruments, they are meant to be performed in a singing style known as 'gayaki'. Carnatic Instrumental music dates back to thousands of years when instruments such as 'Yazh' and 'Flute' were in vogue. Well-known instruments here are Volin, Veena, Gottuvadhyam, Mridangam, Gadam, Tanpura, Flute etc.