Playford's "Dancing Master" was first published in 1651 and contained instructions and tunes for 105 dances. Most of these dances continue to be danced and the tunes used, not only for dancing. Various versions of the book continued to be produced until 1728, with different dances, and an increased number, in each edition.

The book has been influential throughout its history and the 20th Century use of Country Dancing in eductaion was based partly on Playford and partly on dances collected by people like Cecil Sharp. The tunes have been continued by every method but very much including printed tune books. So, it's a mix of oral and printed transmission and often both.

:-)
Ian