The Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Bands Association (TTCBA) was officially established in October 2012 by a dedicated group of Mas practitioners and bandleaders who recognized the urgent need for effective representation of the Mas fraternity. Driven by a shared vision to create a united, inclusive, and transparent organization, the TTCBA was formed to serve those genuinely committed to the growth, development, and sustainability of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival.

Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago has its origins in 1783 with the arrival of French settlers. Since then, bandleaders have consistently sought representation through various entities to advocate for their interests and support the efficient management of Carnival at the practitioner level. The TTCBA emerged as a progressive response to this historical pursuit, reimagining the future of Mas under the leadership of its founders.

The founding members Patrick Roberts, Earl Patterson, Arden Knox, and Andrew Alleng initiated the movement under the banner “Concerned Members of the NCBA for Change.” Their goal was to establish a new organization that would operate transparently and responsibly, representing the Mas fraternity’s interests with integrity and inclusivity.

Prominent figures such as Brian MacFarlane, Dave Cameron, Roland St. George, Glendon Morris, Gerry Weekes, Mrs. Patricia Bailey, and Rosalind Gabriel soon joined the movement, unified in their belief that enhancing the Carnival product would ultimately benefit the entire nation. In 2012 Rosalind Gabriel presented a paper to the Joint Select Committee of Parliament on the operations of the National Carnival Commission (NCC), marking a pivotal moment in the organization’s advocacy efforts.

Following a comprehensive audit of the Mas fraternity’s membership in 2017, the NCC officially recognized the TTCBA as the representative body most reflective of the interests of Carnival bands across Trinidad and Tobago. As a result, the TTCBA was granted formal recognition, and then President Mrs. Rosalind Gabriel was appointed Mas Commissioner on the NCC Board by official instrument dated June 20, 2018.

Today, the TTCBA is led by President Mr. Mark Ayen who continues to build upon the legacy of the organization’s founding members and past leadership. Under his stewardship, the TTCBA remains committed to fostering innovation, accountability, and unity within the Mas community.

Conveniently located at Room 29, Grand Stand, Queen’s Park Savannah (QPS), the TTCBA office serves as a central hub for the Mas fraternity offering support, guidance, and essential services to the industry throughout the year.