What are some of the must listen carnatic songs on flute?

For those interested in exploring Carnatic music on the flute, here are some notable and highly recommended pieces, often performed by the renowned flautist Dr. N. Ramani:

From Dr. N. Ramani's Repertoire

• Thaye Yesoda: A composition by Oothukadu Venkatasubbaiyer, known for its beautiful and intricate flute renditions14.
• Enna Thavam: Composed by Papanasam Sivan, this piece is a staple in Carnatic flute music14.
• Marugelara: A Thyagaraja composition that showcases the flute's expressive capabilities14.
• Manasa Sancharare: Composed by Sadasiva Brahmendra, this is another popular piece often performed by Dr. N. Ramani14.
• Raghunandana: A Thyagaraja composition that highlights the flute's melodic richness4.
• Vara Ragalaya: Another Thyagaraja composition that is frequently featured in Dr. N. Ramani's performances4.

Other Notable Pieces

• Vanchathonu: Although not specifically mentioned in Dr. N. Ramani's context, this piece in Raga Karnaranjani, performed by other flautists like J.A. Jayant, is also highly regarded in Carnatic music3.

Characteristics of These Pieces

These compositions often include complex ragas, intricate tanam (rhythmic articulation of the raga), and pallavi (the main theme of the composition), which are central elements of Carnatic music. Dr. N. Ramani's performances are particularly celebrated for their traditional and precise rendition of these pieces24.