What term is used for music that does not have extra-musical associations, also known as “pure music”?

The term "absolute music" refers to instrumental music that is not intended to represent or refer to anything external to itself, meaning it does not evoke any extra-musical associations or narratives. This concept is central to a certain philosophy of music which values the form, structure, and aesthetic quality of the music itself rather than its relationship to stories, images, or external themes.

In contrast, other terms mentioned in the options carry specific connotations that involve more explicit elements of music and expression. For instance, word painting is a technique where the music reflects the literal meaning of the lyrics, suggesting a direct connection to textual content. Homorhythmic texture refers to a musical texture in which all voices or parts move in the same rhythm, focusing on harmony rather than on the idea of being free of extraneous associations. Melisma is a musical technique where several notes are sung to a single syllable of text, which again ties the music closely to the lyrics rather than to a purely instrumental context.

Therefore, absolute music stands out in its commitment to being purely musical, unencumbered by extra-musical narrative or imagery, solidifying its definition as "pure music."