Final answer:
The Romantic composer's focus on strict form like their Classical predecessors is false. Romantic composers did adhere to some formal structures but were more experimental and expressive. The era saw both conservative figures who maintained Classical forms and boundary-pushing progressives.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that Romantic composers focused on strict form, just as Classical composers did before them, is False. While Romantic composers did not completely abandon the formal structures established during the Classical period, they were more willing to experiment and express individual emotion within their works. Therefore, Romantic composers had a more flexible approach to the rules around form and structure.
However, it's essential to note that the Romantic era featured both conservative and progressive composers. Composers like Schubert, Schumann, Mendelssohn, and Brahms retained much of the Classical influence in terms of adherence to form and harmonic conventions. In contrast, figures like Berlioz, Strauss, and Wagner were known for challenging and expanding the boundaries of the accepted norms of their time.
The Romantic era covered a broad timeframe mainly associated with the nineteenth century but extending into the early twentieth century, known for post-Romanticism. This era ushered in a cultural shift wherein music became more accessible to the burgeoning middle class, moving away from exclusive aristocratic patronage.
Different Approaches to Romanticism
Throughout the Romantic era, some composers took a more conservative approach, seeking not to stray too far from Classical rules, while others felt more comfortable pushing the boundaries. This shows how the Romantic period contained a spectrum of compositional styles, from those deeply inspired by the Classical era to those who sought to redefine what music could convey.