When playing the middle sanxian of the Yi nationality, hang the strap on the neck, the qin bar is horizontally in front of the abdomen, the qin barrel is placed on the right side of the waist and crotch, and the head of the qin is inclined to the upper left. The left hand holds the piano and strums the strings, and the right hand plucks and strums the strings.

The middle sanxian is usually tuned according to the relationship of fifths, fourths or fourths and fifths. The inner and outer strings are in octave relationship. The tuning is four degrees higher than the major sanxian. The usual tunings are: f, c1, f1 or g, c1, g1.

The pronunciation is round, the volume is loud, and the tone is soft and full. The strumming technique is commonly used in performance, which can enhance the sense of rhythm and joyful atmosphere.

The sanxian of the Yi nationality can be used for solo, instrumental ensemble or to accompany folk songs and dances. It is an inseparable stringed instrument for young men and women of the Yi nationality when they dance. The boys often play and dance, sometimes using two middle three strings to play together, and there are other Yi folk orchestral and percussion instruments. The rhythm is bright and the atmosphere is warm. .