it's wrong to say that English traditional music is ALL about the tune; it's not wrong to say that it's MOSTLY about the tune?.

IMO, English traditional songs are MOSTLY about the words. However you do it, the chosen tune is a device to carry the words.

With the dance music. I would say the rhythm is more than the melody itself (or possible accompaniment).


fwiw and just my outlook: Re chords and harmonies, personally I don't see anything untraditional in using or not using them as you see right for the piece in question and as resources allow. I can't explain it but I'd suggest it really comes down to what you feel is in keeping and fits with that.