I've been playing 'trad.' music to 'folk audiences' for thirty odd years (yes, they were odd) and although I certainly don't claim any degree of authority from that, would like to point out that a tradition can only be identified with hindsight. The only tradition I can see happening is that of taking old material and altering it to suit a contemporary audience. I also agree completely with both 'PRS Member' and 'Cynic' (above) that the only objective definition is the legal one, as used for marketing purposes. Nevertheless, an interesting discussion which I've thoroughly enjoyed reading and found most educational. Much thanks for that.

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