people basically had a handful of different masks to wear and to be part of society you had to choose one

Sounds a little like "The Moon Moth" by Jack Vance.

Edit: Synopsis - "Sirenese cover their faces and heads with exquisitely crafted masks that indicate their social status (strakh) and mood. They also communicate by singing, accompanying themselves with one of a score of musical instruments, selected based on the social situation and feelings. Furthermore, errors of etiquette may prove fatal."