Louis Saldenah on: Running Toronto Carnival's Leading Band, Passing on Legacy, & 'When Mas was Mas'

Louis Saldenah, a Toronto Carnival veteran and band leader of Saldenah Carnival, which holds 21 Band of the Year titles and 13 second-place titles, reflects on 80 years of Saldenah.
From growing up in the mas camp under his father to passing down the tradition of mas to his children and their children, Louis shares insights into the costs of running a band, what's led to his success, and his vision for the future of mas.
He advocates for a return to pageantry, the removal of bikinis in favor of more elaborate costumes, and bringing back the essence of 'when mas was mas.'
#caribbeanculture #torontocarnival #trinidadcarnival #mas
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[@ExxxclusiiveShiitt]

glad you're documenting the stories of all the behind the scenes people doing major things for the caribbean culture!

[@JohannaPGrant]

I've been taking notes, legacies and legends aren't built overnight!

[@grizzlyvisualz]

Legendary Conversation 💯 Thanks for this 🙏🏾🫡

[@kenefa7466]

Nah man bring back the standards! I always complaining how I miss standards

[@Ifartonhaterz]

Omg! I remember someone telling me when I started playing mas when I was 19-20 (don’t play with Saldenah it’s for older people) but I never believed them

[@kotiandeyomo]

Man I learned so much from this interview about the culture also about the work ethic and dedication It takes to run a band. I have much more respect for Carribana and the whole culture as a whole. Thank you

[@naturallychantelle]

I love that he touches on how he had to pivot with the costumes. I agree that it is sad that carnival is losing pageantry. There should at least be a mix

[@JohannaPGrant]

No Boss, you going to compete 😂