I managed to achieve my goal of getting to the top 2000s (Currently at 1826) of player rankings, partly to do with adding some cards to my inventory.
I'm still learning the intricacies of the game, like taking more lessons to reduce my 'ego', which eats into my ability to earn more starbits.
Just reached lev 50, which makes me eligible for 'drum lessons'
About 72 more players to 7000!
images: https://www.risingstargame.com
Im 1.2k in the ranking :D nice 7k players
7k... and counting!