Which term refers to music that tells a story or portrays a scene?

The term that refers to music that tells a story or portrays a scene is "Program music." This type of music is specifically composed to convey a narrative or evoke imagery, often with accompanying textual descriptions or titles that provide context for what the listener should envision. For example, a piece of program music may be inspired by a particular event, poem, or painting, leading the listener on a journey through sound that depicts the intended story or scene.

In contrast, while "Word painting" involves using musical elements to reflect the literal meaning of the lyrics, it is more focused on vocal music and not a standalone form like program music. "Absolute music," on the other hand, refers to music that is not explicitly about anything outside of itself; it does not tell a specific story or convey a particular scene, emphasizing structure and form over narrative. "Folk music," while it can tell stories, is a broader genre encompassing traditional music that often reflects cultural heritage rather than being specifically designed as programmatic music.