i. While both systems divide the octave into twelve parts, their nomenclature is different. Moreover, Carnatic music uses 16 notes in these 12 values.
ii. Carnatic music is melodic – it stresses more on successive notes with ornamentation, whereas Western music focuses on harmony – simultaneous notes and combinations thereof.
iii. Carnatic music – be it vocal and instrumental – makes abundant use of lyrics that have been composed alongside tunes by its composers, whileWestern compositions, particularly those meant for instruments, do not find lyrics very significant.
iv. Western classical music gives almost exclusive attention to compositions, while Carnatic music is an equal melange of the creative and the composed.
v. The concerts of Carnatic music could be best described as a combination of a few soloists, who also operate as a team on occasions, but those of the West revolve more around members of a team, some of whom may occasionally don the role of a soloist.
vi. The lead artiste also dons the role of the conductor of a Carnatic concert.