Have to agree with Tim on one level. I certainly wouldn't like to hear our beloved songs being sung by operatic voices.

On the other hand Vaughan Williams is the most popular by far of any British composers amongst the general populace. Classic FM has had for many years Lark Ascending at the top of its top 100 and other pieces are also near the top. My absolute favourite is Fantasia on Greensleeves, followed by Lark Ascending. I also absolutely adore the other folksong arrangements by VW and by George Butterworth. But sung in a plummy voice? No thanks.