Verdi
In Il Corsaro, though the characterization is rudimentary, the contrast between the two heroines is effective, with Gulnara, the Pasha’s slave, carrying conviction in the coup de foudre which has her promptly worshipping the Corsair, an early example of the Rudolph Valentino figure. The rival heroines are taken splendidly here, with Jessye Norman as the faithful wife, Medora, actually upstaging Montserrat Caballé as Gulnara. Gardelli directs a vivid performance, with fine singing from the hero, portrayed by José Carreras. Gian-Piero Mastromei, not rich in tone, still rises to the challenge of the Pasha’s music. Excellent, firmly focused and well-balanced Philips sound. The Penguin Guide