The first to adapt a piano from a harpsichord was, as you may know, Al, an Italian - but important developments were made in England and, yes, singing around one is another one of our fine ENGLISH traditions.
I only watched bits of the Olympics 2008 concert in London, this afternoon - but it seemed to be mainly English singing verses in an American pop or rock style, as well as a Welsh lady singing in Italian. And, if you don't want to listen to me, IB, check up on RVW who, paraphrasing, said our only truly English music is our folk songs and dance music.