Which term refers specifically to music that serves no purpose beyond its own aesthetic value?

The term that specifically refers to music serving no purpose beyond its own aesthetic value is absolute music. This type of music is created solely for the sake of musical expression, without any external narrative or associated imagery. It stands apart from music that is written with a specific function in mind, such as programmatic issues, where compositions are intended to evoke a story or represent specific ideas and themes.

In contrast, functional music often serves a specific purpose, such as background music for films, ceremonies, or other settings. Program music actively involves a narrative, painting a picture with sound, which is distinctly different from absolute music's self-contained aesthetic form. Commercial music is typically produced with the goal of generating profit and appealing to broad audiences, often integrating various commercial elements which can detract from pure aesthetic considerations.

By focusing purely on its own structure, emotional depth, and harmonies, absolute music highlights its intrinsic beauty and artistic expression, allowing listeners to appreciate the music on its own terms without external influences.