I really don't see what the big deal is. Here (in SW England) I sing that older tune, often along with a Scottish friend, around Xmas and New Year - sometimes we get asked to sing it to round off the evening. We sing the verses, everyone joins in the chorus. No one gets it mixed up with the other tune, or stands up with their arms crossed - it's just a simple song, and enjoyed in much the same way as many other traditional songs.The only time I'd avoid that tune is midnight on 31 December, when people expect and enjoy the better known tune.

If I wanted to show off my vocal technique, there are far more demanding songs I could choose, and I wouldn't pick one with a chorus - choruses are great levellers.

Marje