WV: If you went to Celtic Connections you would find masses of people interested in the development of, not only their own traditions, but those of others too. Traditions by their very nature will change and develop over time and are subject to influence. If it doesn't change it is not a tradition it is simply a repeated process.

As regards English trad music (not songs), I find too much of it to be over simple in rhythm and melody and too predictable. There are notable exceptions of course, eg Playford. I'm guessing here, but perhaps we English have not enjoyed the same intense culture of social dance that say the Irish and Scots have. That same dance culture still exists in those places as it does in 'Celtically Connected' places eg Canada and Louisianna. ( I'm very sure someone will correct me here).

Regarding curry, I love the stuff but not with pizza. Of course the Indian curry we now consider authentic is usually not made by Indians but Bangladeshis and is very different to the original Asian preparations - that's tradition for you!

I think it's worth remembering the words of that great mixer of cultures, Dave Swarbrick on taking liberties with the tradition - "It's ok, the music won't mind!"