"A further observation... the key element in English music (southern English, at least, which I believe is what you want to play) is rhythm. Irish music focusses more on melody, and the decorations serve to embellish the melody."

Rhythm is as key an element in Irish music as it is in English, it's just different. It might not be as obvious as some of the the yompy Morris tunes but is as important.

Everything is in the tune.