Book description
Financial Times - BEST BOOKS OF 2023'This superb account of how that glorious institution came into being will give you deep and abiding pleasure' Stephen FryWhen harpsichordist Christopher Hogwood and record producer Peter Wadland founded the Academy of Ancient Music in 1973, their mission was to create Britain's first orchestra devoted to recording baroque and classical music on period instruments. They went on to change the musical world. Their success brought the AAM global fame - bringing historically informed performance into the mainstream and putting Vivaldi into the pop charts. But then the orchestra faced a new challenge: reinventing itself to survive and thrive in the world its own success had created.For the first time, Richard Bratby tells the story of this trailblazing orchestra and the people who shaped it: fifty years of innovation, exploration and musical adventure, from the pioneering days of the early 1970s to new directions - and new triumphs - in the 21st century. 'An uplifting, anecdote-packed account of the Academy of Ancient Music [...]' Lucie Skeaping'The refiner's fire of AAM still burns brightly: this book tells us why. From the Marquis of Granby to the Hollywood Bowl; an illuminating account of a musical revolution.' Catherine Bott'Using a mass of archival material and many interviews, Refiner's Fire is a lively account of the orchestra's history, of Christopher Hogwood himself and of the other essential players (literal and figurative).' Emma Kirkby
Leaf Assassin
My kids are hooked on the children's audiobook collection β it's a parenting win! π Making every moment count β this app turns everyday activities into a reading adventure! ππ« π Ironing has become a joy with audiobooks β wrinkles are no match for these captivating stories! ππ§
Pixie Soldier
I'm addicted to this app's ability to turn mundane moments into opportunities for intellectual growth. Kudos to the developers for making this app iOS 16 optimized. It runs like a dream! I appreciate the dark mode option. Itβs easy on the eyes during nighttime listening.
Midas
ListenBook's support for various download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. ListenBook has turned my daily routines into audiobook-driven journeys of imagination. This app's ease of use has made my long drives educational and enjoyable.
Dez
The ability to switch between devices seamlessly is a game-changer for busy readers. CUE playlist support is a rare gem. Perfect for organizing content efficiently. This audiobook performed its function without excelling. The narrator's delivery was straightforward and easy to follow, though lacking in dramatic flair. The recording quality was decent with only occasional minor inconsistencies in volume. An acceptable but forgettable listening experience.
Mosquit-No
The app's compatibility with various devices ensures I never miss a moment of my book. ListenBook's compatibility with playlists and CUE files is a great addition for those who love organized listening. Audiobook enthusiasts, gather round! This app's remarkable features, including audio filters and compatibility, have transformed my commutes into captivating journeys. ππ§ ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is an innovative touch that adds a layer of personalization.
Delirious Supernova
Downloading audio from network devices is a brilliant feature. It's incredibly convenient. The app is so reliable. Iβve never had any issues with it.
Silver Agent
ListenBook's features make it the ultimate audio companion for any audiobook enthusiast. CUE playlist support is a fantastic addition. It helps me organize my audiobooks effortlessly.
Feral Mayhem
ListenBook's compatibility with a wide array of audio formats makes it my ultimate audiobook companion. With support for various audio formats, ListenBook ensures I can enjoy my favorite audiobooks without worries. Not bad, but not amazing either. The narratorβs voice was pleasant, though some parts felt a bit rushed. The story had its moments, but I wouldnβt necessarily recommend it over similar titles in the genre.
Die Slice
π Bedtime stories for adults? Yes, please! This app is a dream come true. ππ π§ Carrying a world of literature in my headphones β this app's convenience is truly remarkable. ππ« ListenBook's extensive format support makes it the ultimate audiobook app for any audiobook lover.
Hex Panther
Accessing my favorite audiobooks has never been easier β this app's user-centric design and comprehensive features make it an absolute gem. π±π§ I can't thank this app enough for making my audiobook experience exceptional. Its intuitive interface and diverse compatibility are a true game-changer. π±π§ ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a major convenience during road trips. This audiobook was a fantastic listen! The narrator's voice was clear and engaging, making it easy to follow along. The pacing was just rightβnot too fast, not too slow. Perfect for long commutes or relaxing at home. Highly recommend!
Mud Pie Man
I can't imagine my audiobook routine without ListenBook's intuitive and user-friendly design. This app has made my daily walks a time for both exercise and learning. π Turning my phone into a portal of stories β this app's ease of use is remarkable! π±π«
Indestructible Potato
I can't believe how easy it is to discover new titles and genres. Pure delight! I've found solace in listening to audiobooks before bed β it's my form of meditation. Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a unique feature that adds a personal touch to my listening. ListenBook has become my trusted companion, making even the busiest days enjoyable. ListenBook's intuitive layout and quick access to chapters make audiobook navigation a breeze.
Raggedy Ann
With this app, my daily routines have become moments of intellectual exploration and personal growth. β° Early mornings have become my favorite time to listen to audiobooks β energizing! π π§ Navigating audiobooks seamlessly β this app's design is top-notch. I love the ability to change the playback speed. Itβs perfect for my needs. What a delightful listening experience! The narrator's timing was impeccable, knowing exactly when to pause for effect or let the words flow. Their character voices were distinct yet natural - no over-the-top accents or distracting vocal tics. The audio quality was consistently excellent.
ThickSKN
Managing my audiobook collection is a pleasure thanks to this app's usability. ListenBook has revolutionized my audiobook experience. It's my go-to app for literary adventures.
Scratch Man
ListenBook's user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it a joy to navigate through my audiobooks. This app's dedication to providing high-quality narration has made all the difference. ListenBook has transformed my listening habits, making them more engaging and enjoyable. Audiobooks made convenient β this app's functionality is a true gift.
HighBomber
ListenBook has rekindled my love for learning, one audio experience at a time. ListenBook's customizable audio filters add a new dimension to my audiobook enjoyment.
Mirage
With ListenBook, I can now listen to my favorite audiobooks and speeches with the utmost comfort and convenience. π An app that turns house chores into exciting adventures β count me in! π§Ήπ Audiobooks have become my constant companions, and this app's seamless functionality and diverse compatibility ensure that every tale is a captivating journey. ππ§ The interface is sleek and modern. It's a pleasure to navigate and use the app. Iβm so impressed with ListenBook. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Highly recommend this app!
CommandX
The seamless integration with my car's audio system is a road trip dream. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true blessing for enjoying clear audio even in noisy environments. I can't get enough of this app β it's a true game-changer for book lovers. The app's versatility in downloading audio is impressive. It streamlines the process and saves time. Downloading books over WiFi is quick and hassle-free. Very convenient.
Dove Dolce
This app's library is a treasure trove β I'm always discovering new favorites. ListenBook has rekindled my love for learning, one audio experience at a time. Adjusting the narrator's voice tone is a fun way to personalize the listening experience. ListenBook has made managing my audiobook collection a breeze. Library organization is top-notch. ListenBook has become an essential part of my day, enhancing my commute and allowing me to enjoy audiobooks like never before.
Boo
Language courses on audiobooks helped me pick up a new language effortlessly. I'm impressed by the app's performance β it's stable, fast, and tailored for audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length feature is fantastic.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience