Book description
A diverse history of the pipes--from inspiring terror on battlefields to enriching cultures worldwide.History's first named bagpiper is a man playing a pipe 'with a bag tucked under his armpit' in the first century CE. He was the Roman Emperor Nero. Since then, this improbable conflation of bag and sticks has become the world's most beloved and contested instrument. Another piping emperor, Tsar Peter the Great, decided that his departed pet bear would live on--as a bagpipe.This vivid history tells the long story of an instrument boasting over 130 varieties, yet commonly associated with just one, from one country: Scotland's Great Highland Bagpipe. In fact, the pipes are played across the globe, illuminating societies in remarkable, unexpected ways. Richard McLauchlan charts the rise of women pipers; investigates class, privilege and capitalism in the piping world; and explores how a 'national instrument' can shift in meaning amidst the currents of identity.The vibrancy and inventiveness of today's pipers showcase the allure of this fabled, fascinating instrument, to which McLauchlan is our surefooted guide.
Charms
Audiobooks on this app have made my workouts more enjoyable and productive. The statistics feature in ListenBook adds an element of self-awareness to my audiobook consumption. From MP3 to FLAC, this app plays them all flawlessly. Say goodbye to compatibility issues! The app is so responsive. It never lags or freezes. The narration elevated an already good book to greatness! The performer's subtle vocal variations conveyed nuance I might have missed while reading. Their ability to maintain consistent character voices across many hours was impressive. Technical quality was flawless throughout.
Clover Dragon
Savoring audiobooks without complications โ this app's design is top-notch. Audiobook enjoyment has become an integral part of my routine, thanks to this app's seamless integration and user-friendly design. A must-have! ๐๐ฑ Adjusting the tone of the voice is so innovative. It's like personalizing the narration. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends, sparking engaging conversations and connections that transcend boundaries.
Raid Bucker
The voice actors are incredible โ they make the characters come alive. This app is a gift for book lovers who struggle to find reading time. ๐ฅ Streamlined functionality that's music to my ears โ audiobook enjoyment has reached a new level of convenience. ๐ต๐ CarPlay compatibility is a fantastic addition. It enhances my driving experience with seamless audiobook integration. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, becoming an indispensable companion for various activities. Its user-friendly interface, features, and performance make it a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts.
Steel Solstice
I'm blown away by how this app has made my workouts more enjoyable and my mind more active. Packed with useful features. My favorite audiobook app!
Kickstart
ListenBook's support for multiple download methods ensures I can always access my favorite content. I love the compatibility with iOS 16. The app runs smoothly and flawlessly. Binaural audio processing reduces listening fatigue. Fantastic feature! The app is perfect for multitaskers. I can listen while working out. A decent listen overall. The narration was clear, though some character voices sounded similar. The story was interesting but had moments where it dragged slightly. Still, it was a good way to pass the time.
JigKraken
ListenBook's compatibility with playlists and CUE files is a great addition for those who love organized listening. I'm hooked on ListenBook's silky-smooth playback, making my audio sessions truly enjoyable.
Peanut Butter Woman
This app has brought stories to life in a way that traditional reading never could. The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a dream for road trips. It keeps me entertained.
Dancing Madman
The layout of ListenBook is so beautiful and user-friendly, making it a pleasure to use. This app's seamless integration with my devices has made audiobook listening a hassle-free experience. ๐ก The future of audiobook listening is here โ this app's sleek functionality redefines how we enjoy our favorite stories. ๐ง๐ฎ Audiobook joy made simple โ this app's ease of use is a true marvel. What a fantastic listening experience! The narrator brought the characters to life with distinct voices and emotional depth. The pacing was perfect - not too fast to lose details, not too slow to become boring. I particularly appreciated how well the narrator conveyed the atmosphere of key scenes.
Cosmic Presence
As a language learner, this app has been invaluable in improving my listening skills. I can't believe how much I've learned and enjoyed through this app's audiobooks. I never thought I'd find an app that supports such a wide range of audiobook formats. ListenBook is a true gem! ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is fascinating. I can alter the reader's voice to match my moodโwhat a creative addition! The listening stats feature is awesome. I can track my audiobook habits effortlessly.
Pogue
ListenBook has transformed my daily activities into opportunities for personal growth. This app's efficient downloading process ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks whenever and wherever. Quick access to chapters is so handy. Navigating through content is a breeze.
Oblivion
I'm impressed by ListenBook's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically. ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature is a time-saving convenience that I greatly appreciate. ListenBook's comprehensive format support makes it the ultimate companion for audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made my recordings sound clearer than ever. An absolutely stellar production from start to finish! The narrator's command of pacing and tone was masterful, knowing exactly when to speed up for excitement or slow down for dramatic effect. The audio quality was pristine with no distracting mouth sounds or uneven volume.
Fl00d
ListenBook's audio filters are a fantastic addition, enhancing the sound quality of my audio files. ๐ Unlocking the door to imagination โ this app is my key to endless stories and endless possibilities. ๐๐
Danger Menace
The range of self-help and personal development audiobooks is truly enriching. The fact that ListenBook supports a wide range of formats without DRM protection is a huge win. ListenBook has turned my everyday moments into extraordinary journeys of imagination.
Mammoth 2
ListenBook has elevated my audiobook enjoyment to a whole new level โ it's a must-have for any audio enthusiast. With ListenBook, my iPhone and iPad have become a gateway to a world of captivating stories. ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch has streamlined my multitasking. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats has made it my go-to app for all audio content. A middle-of-the-road audiobook that neither impressed nor disappointed. The narrator's voice was agreeable enough for extended listening, though their character differentiation could have been stronger. The production met basic industry standards without any standout qualities.
Cosmic Presence
The family subscription option is a money-saver โ everyone gets to enjoy their favorite books. Navigating through my audiobook collection is a breeze โ this app's intuitive interface and convenient controls have made my reading journey effortless. ๐ฑ๐ CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to create curated listening experiences for different moods and settings.
Red Hot Kevorkian
No more fighting over the radio during family trips โ we're all hooked on audiobooks now. I've become a more empathetic listener thanks to the emotional depth of audiobooks.
Take Away
ListenBook has united my love for audiobooks with my passion for learning. What a brilliant app! Downloading over WiFi is quick and efficient. Saves a lot of time. The app is perfect for people who love to read but donโt have the time.
Lord Pistachio
ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a game-changer. I can now focus on the story even in noisy environments. The layout is not only beautiful but also intuitive. Controls are easy to access. The app is perfect for people who love to read but donโt have the time.
Force
ListenBook has rekindled my love for learning, one audio experience at a time. This app's versatility and convenience have transformed my screen time into a productive reading journey. I've never experienced such a smooth audiobook player. The playback is seamless.
QuestWeaver
With ListenBook, I can now listen to my favorite audiobooks and speeches with the utmost comfort and convenience. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch makes it a versatile companion for my daily activities. ListenBook has made my commutes more enjoyable, transforming them into learning sessions. This app has turned my screen time into valuable learning opportunities. Automatic metadata retrieval adds a professional touch to my audiobook collection.
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