Russell Wilson, a violist and member of the Portland Symphony Orchestra, performs during "Elegies, Lights and Lullabies," a concert for 40 or so people put on in a private West End home. The concert was the first in what the Portland Chamber Music Festival hopes to make a regular occurrence.

Violist Russell Wilson prepares to take his seat as he chats with the intimate crowd before performing "Elegies, Lights and Lullabies," a concert for 40 or so people at a private home in Portland's West End.

Patrons follow along with the musical program during "Elegies, Lights and Lullabies."

Violist Russell Wilson, center, talks with patrons before a private concert in Portland.

Violinist Jennifer Elowitch makes her way upstairs in a West End home before performing with fellow string players. The Portland Chamber Music Festival hopes to perform more of the private concerts.

Alice Kornhauser, executive director of the Portland Chamber Music Festival, listens to the music during the private house concert.