This paper is a research report of investigative fieldwork on the musical culture of the southern provinces of Thailand. The research was conducted by interviewing prominent musicians from each of the following provinces: Chumphon, Krabi, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phang-Nga, Phatthalung, Phuket, Satun, Songkhla, Surat Thani and Trang. The current political instability in the provinces of Pattani, Yala and Narativas prevented conducting research in these locales. 

The process of this qualitative research consisted of direct observation, in-depth interviews of well-known artists, a survey of musical instruments and related performance or ritual materials /documents. The research found that the culturally significant music and performances in this region can be divided into 2 socio-religious groups delineated by the Buddhist and Muslim faiths. 

The core songs and performances of the Buddhists are: Ka Lo, Nang Talung, Nora, Phon and Li Ke Pa, while the key classical Thai songs are Phleng Ruea, Phleng Bok, Phleng Na and Phleng Tak. Those of the Muslim groups are: Rong Ngeng, Ma?yong, Dikia, Li Ke Hulu and Sila. 

This article will present information only about the music and performances of the Muslim social group as the Buddhist related research is covered in a separate article. This report will focus on the key elements and characteristics, succession of musical knowledge, rituals and beliefs, including the knowledge succession of each musical performance.