john patrick varineau is associate conductor of the grand rapids symphony as well as the director of the grand rapids youth symphony, an affiliate of the grand rapids symphony, in grand rapids, michigan. appointed assistant conductor in june 1985 prior to the start of the grand rapids symphony's 1985-86 season, he was promoted to associate conductor in may 1986. in august 1988, varineau was named director of the grand rapids youth symphony. the 2018-19 season is his 34th season on staff with the grand rapids symphony and his 31st season with the grand rapids youth symphony.