I think the songs will be preserved, perhaps only by small select groups, but they will be. And don't give up on the younger generation. My son was sung to sleep every night with traditional songs when he was a baby. Then at the age of 10 he discovered heavy metal and went through a Metallica/Marilyn Manson/Megadeth etc. stage. Now he plays "progressive rock" but when I asked him if he'd do the guitar work on my CD he jumped at the chance and played beautifully. We even did some gigging together and his interest in traditional songs has revived. (Incidentally that CD is on the Mudcat Auction right now with all proceeds going to Mudcat - it only has a few more days to go - hint hint). It'll also be available in a week or so in the UK at http://www.tradmusic.com

There'll always be diehard folkies who will keep the music alive!