connecting surround sound

First off, surround sound normally requires 5 speakers, not 3.  You also need a subwoofer to get the ".1".  I know, things like soundbars simulate surround sound with less but true surround needs 5 or more speakers.  The Bose Acoustimass systems show 5 or 6 speakers plus a sub.  Connection should be simple, cable box to receiver using hdmi and receiver to TV also using hdmi.  Here is how to place your speakers for 5.1 surround sound from Dolby Labs: http://www.dolby.com/us/en/guide/surround-sound-speaker-setup/5-1-setup.html

Check your Yamaha manual to see if it has a mode to simulate surround sound using 3 speakers, I don't know of any.