In the sphere of music aesthetics, since the Renaissance, the problem of expression has become a subject of considerable controversy. Several theories have emerged affirming the existence of expression as one of the basic components of music, but these so called heteronomy theories, when examined carefully, can not be sustained. Music, different from other kinds of art, has no objective expression. The essence of music does not consist in its expression, but in its construction. From this point of view, the autonomy theory is superior to the heteronomy theory. The autonomy theory deals with expression as an independent entity, but in doing so unfortunately loses sight of the vital relation between the artist and his works of art. In this respect the theory needs to be revised. In conclusion, it is emphasised that since works of art spring from the personality of the artists who create them, even the pure abstract music retains the basic outlook of the personality of the artist.
