Hindustani Vocal is a classical music tradition that originated in North India. It is based on a system of ragas (melodic frameworks) and talas (rhythmic cycles) that guide improvisation and composition. Hindustani vocal music emphasizes intricate ornamentation, slow elaboration (alap), and rhythmic interplay. It includes various styles such as Khayal, Dhrupad, Thumri, and Tappa, each with unique characteristics and expressive depth. A practitioner of Hindustani vocal music is called a vocalist or a Hindustani musician.