"the product of a musical tradition that has been evolved through the process of oral transmission. The factors that shape the tradition are: (1) continuity which links the present with the past; (2) variation which springs from the creative impulse of the individual or the group; and (3) selection by the community which determines the form or forms in which the music survives."

It is the acceptance into the community that governs admission. Thus it is perfectly possible for songs to become folk songs even if not sung in folk clubs. No admissions body is needed.

And incidentally that disposes of the assertion that it is inherent that the collectors and revivalists postulated that there was no individual creation and no creator appreciation.