I don't believe that last quote by Igor. Music, which is the product of sound interpreted by human beings to be aesthetically pleasing, is inherently expression. Sound, which comprises music, is not inherently expression.
As for my own techniques, I like traditional harmony normally... but also, well-placed dissonances that aren't used traditionally (a la Whitacre) can be very beautiful. I need to do more of that. I love ensembles that you would never expect to see, such as... taking this from one of my own... harp, oboe, guitar, bass, violin and synthpad.
Sometimes I don't like the restrictions put on ensembles so I put whatever I want in a piece. I love technical passages, especially improvised, especially combined smoothly with slower and less complicated passages. I like lush percussive sections, and sometimes a drum set with creative fills works great. Yeah, I'm a fan of rockin' drums. Love portamento too.